Trump to Kick Off ‘Reciprocal Tariffs’ Rollout in Coming Days

Trump Launches Sweeping Tariff Strategy, Sending Shockwaves Through Markets

In a dramatic policy shift announced from the White House Rose Garden on Wednesday, President Donald Trump revealed plans to implement a series of sweeping “reciprocal tariffs” aimed at addressing long-standing trade imbalances. The announcement immediately rattled global markets, including cryptocurrencies.

“For more than half a century, American taxpayers have shouldered the burden of unfair trade practices,” said Trump. “Those days are over. These tariffs begin taking effect immediately.”

Key details of the new trade policy include:

• A 25% tariff on all imported automobiles, effective midnight, April 3
• A 10% blanket tariff on all imports, going into effect midnight, April 5
• Targeted tariffs by country, with implementation starting midnight, April 9:
  • China: 34%
  • Vietnam: 46%
  • Taiwan: 32%
  • South Korea: 25%
  • European Union: 20%
  • Switzerland: 31%

Markets responded with immediate volatility. Bitcoin (BTC), which briefly surged on initial optimism, reversed course and dropped to $86,000, down roughly 1% on the day.

Equity futures also suffered: the Nasdaq 100 fell 2.3%, while the S&P 500 declined 1.7%. In contrast, gold prices spiked to just under $3,200/oz, setting a new record as investors sought safe-haven assets.

The announcement signals a more confrontational stance on trade ahead of the 2025 election cycle and introduces uncertainty into global supply chains, with both Wall Street and digital asset markets reacting accordingly.

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