New U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, set to take effect on March 12, are drawing sharp reactions from industries in Vietnam and Brazil. The 25% levy, announced by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on March 9, applies to all countries and has ignited concerns about disrupted trade flows and strained global supply chains.
CGTN Stringer spoke with workers and business leaders in both nations to gauge the policy's impact. Vietnamese steel and aluminum workers emphasized challenges in accessing the U.S. market. \"Our products are now priced out of competition,\" one worker noted, underscoring fears over potential layoffs and reduced production.
A 25% tariff disrupts a market the WTO has organized for decades. This isn't just about Brazil – it shakes global trade,\u201d said Alderir Gutierres, a Brazilian entrepreneur.
Analysts warn the tariffs could redirect surplus steel to regional markets, intensifying competition in Asia and Latin America. For Brazil, a major exporter to the U.S., the move threatens long-standing trade partnerships. Meanwhile, Vietnam's export-driven economy faces pressure to diversify amid rising protectionism.
As industries adapt, questions linger over how the policy will reshape multilateral trade frameworks and influence upcoming WTO dialogues.
