Italian premier pledges to work for agreement with US on tariffs

​​​​​​​By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) – Italy’s premier pledged Thursday to work for an agreement with the US on tariffs.

“The introduction of tariffs by the United States against the European Union is a measure that I consider wrong and that does not benefit any of the parties involved,” Giorgia Meloni said in a statement.

“We will do everything we can to work towards an agreement with the United States, with the goal of averting a trade war that would inevitably weaken the West to the advantage of other global players,” she emphasized.

Meloni added that Italy would act to protect its economy and coordinate actions with European partners.

US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs Wednesday, ranging from 10% to 50% on imports from dozens of countries and economic regions, including South Africa.

Imports from South Africa will face a 30% surcharge, while others, including Türkiye, the UK, Brazil, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, will see a 10% reciprocal tariff.

The EU will face a 20% tariff, while other nations will be subject to reciprocal tariffs as follows: China 34%, Vietnam 46%, Taiwan 32%, Japan 24%, India 26%, South Korea 25%, Thailand 36%, Switzerland 31%, Indonesia 32%, Malaysia 24%, Cambodia 49%, Bangladesh 30% and Israel 17%.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned nations against retaliating, warning that any countermeasures could lead to even higher US tariff rates.

Analysts expect many countries targeted by reciprocal tariffs to retaliate, with risk perception remaining high amid growing concerns about an escalating trade war.