Trump defends tariff strategy as ‘Flexibility,’ not ‘Inconsistency

Uncategorized , / Wednesday, March 12th, 2025

RKI Network
Washington, March 13 – Former President Donald Trump defended his shifting tariff policies on Wednesday, rejecting claims of inconsistency and instead framing his approach as necessary “flexibility.”
“There’s no inconsistency. I have the right to adjust,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, responding to concerns over his frequent tariff threats and subsequent exemptions.
Trump cited his recent decision to temporarily exempt auto parts from tariffs on Mexico and Canada after consultations with major U.S. automakers—Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. “It’s called flexibility, not inconsistency,” he insisted, emphasizing his willingness to adapt economic measures as needed.
The former president reaffirmed that April 2 would be a key date when the U.S. plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on nations with duties on American goods.
Trump’s tariff strategy has contributed to market volatility, with his policies shifting significantly in recent weeks. In early February, he announced additional tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China. While duties on Chinese imports took effect immediately, those on Mexico and Canada were delayed by a month. Once implemented, certain auto parts and goods covered under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement were later exempted.
This week, Trump also imposed sweeping steel and aluminum tariffs, initially threatening to double duties on Canadian imports before pulling back after Ontario adjusted its surcharge on electricity exports.
Looking ahead, Trump has signaled further tariff measures targeting industries such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, and other goods, reinforcing his protectionist economic stance.