President Donald Trump is pushing for even tougher tariffs as part of a broader effort to overhaul the U.S. economy, according to sources cited by The Washington Post. One of the most controversial ideas under discussion is a universal tariff—a flat duty that would apply to most imported goods regardless of their country of origin.
This proposal is gaining traction as April 2 approaches, a day Trump has labeled “Liberation Day,” when his next round of tariffs will be unveiled. The move signals an even more protectionist stance than his previous policies, which already imposed significant trade barriers on goods from China, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.
A Universal Tariff: The Next Big Trade War Move?
The idea of a universal tariff is based on Trump’s belief that a single, across-the-board duty would be harder to dilute through exemptions and lobbying. While discussions are still ongoing, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s “Dirty 15” plan—targeting 15% of the worst U.S. trading partners—appears to be the most likely outcome, according to The Washington Post.
Wilbur Ross, who served as Commerce Secretary during Trump’s first term, confirmed that multiple options are on the table. “They are working hard to make the idea of a reciprocal tariff both understandable to the American public and effective,” Ross told the newspaper.
Economic Uncertainty: Inflation, Recession Risks, and Market Jitters
Markets initially rallied on speculation that Trump’s new tariffs would be more selective. However, those gains were erased after he announced new auto tariffs on March 27, triggering a fresh selloff.
Economists warn that the tariffs could fuel inflation, making goods more expensive for American consumers. Federal Reserve officials, including Boston Fed President Susan Collins, have expressed concerns that tariff-driven price increases are inevitable, and the central bank may have to keep interest rates high for an extended period.
Surveys show that both businesses and consumers are growing increasingly pessimistic about the economy. Even companies in Trump-supporting states report worsening business conditions, with supply chain disruptions and rising costs threatening profitability. Meanwhile, financial analysts have raised the odds of a U.S. recession, with some seeing a 50-50 chance of an economic downturn if Trump’s tariff plans move forward.
Trump’s Trade Gamble: America’s Manufacturing Comeback or Economic Chaos?
Despite concerns from Wall Street, Trump remains steadfast in his belief that tariffs are necessary to restore American manufacturing. He has acknowledged that “some pain” is inevitable but argues that the long-term benefits—stronger domestic industries and a rebalanced trade landscape—will outweigh the short-term costs.
Several companies have pledged to relocate factories to the U.S., but experts warn that disrupting complex global supply chains—especially in the auto sector—could backfire. Industry leaders estimate that Trump’s new tariffs could cost American consumers $100 billion, further straining household budgets.
A White House spokesperson reinforced the administration’s stance, stating:
“America cannot just be an assembler of foreign-made parts—we must become a manufacturing powerhouse that dominates every step of the supply chain in industries critical to our national security and economic interests.”
As the clock ticks toward April 2, all eyes are on Trump’s next move. Will his aggressive tariff strategy revitalize U.S. manufacturing, or will it push the economy closer to recession?
