April 4, 2025

Caribbean countries are assessing the impact of sweeping tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump, with some planning to hold talks with Washington to mitigate the effects. On Wednesday, Trump introduced new tariffs on nearly all US trading partners, including a 10 percent tariff on most Caribbean nations and a 38 percent tariff on Guyana. These measures, economists warn, could dismantle much of the global economic framework and trigger broader trade wars.

Trump’s aggressive rhetoric described the global trade system as exploitative, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing. He claimed that the US has been “looted, pillaged, and plundered” by other nations. In response, Guyana’s government is engaging with the US to address the high tariffs, with Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding and appropriate resolution. The Private Sector Commission (PSC) warned that Guyana would be severely affected by these protectionist measures, given that the US is Guyana’s largest trading partner.

Trinidad and Tobago’s government plans to negotiate responsibly with the Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of maintaining bilateral trade. Prime Minister Stuart Young assured the public that his administration is prepared to negotiate in the country’s best interest. Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister Dr. Amery Browne expressed concerns about the negative repercussions of global trade instability on smaller nations, highlighting the need for careful navigation of these challenges.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne noted the new tariffs and highlighted the reciprocal tariff arrangement with the US. Meanwhile, Barbados’ Minister of Finance Ryan Straughn discussed the broader impact on goods and the need for efficient production methods to mitigate the tariff increases. Straughn also emphasized the importance of intra-regional trade and exploring new markets, including Africa and Latin America, to diversify economic partnerships.

Economists warn that the US tariffs could push the global order to a breaking point, with Trump aiming to bring in hundreds of billions in new revenue and restore fairness to global trade. Trump stated that taxpayers have been exploited for over 50 years and vowed that this would no longer continue.

Source: (The Gleaner)

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