United States President Donald Trump announced on Friday that his administration will maintain a permanent minimum tariff of 10% on goods from trade partners, even after formal trade agreements are signed. Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized the need for a consistent baseline in U.S. trade policy, noting, “You are always going to have a baseline.”

Trump clarified that while some products or nations might be granted exceptions, the 10% tariff would generally apply across the board. He went on to suggest that tariffs could be significantly higher in certain situations. “Some tariffs will go to 40%, 50%, or even 60%, depending on how unfairly some countries have treated us,” he warned.

The announcement signals a continued commitment to protectionist economic principles that have defined Trump’s trade agenda since taking office. The baseline tariff approach aims to reinforce American manufacturing, address trade imbalances, and ensure that U.S. interests are safeguarded in global markets.

Analysts believe the policy may complicate negotiations with key trade allies and could trigger retaliatory measures from foreign governments. However, Trump supporters argue that the firm stance is necessary to prevent exploitation of the U.S. economy and to promote domestic production.

As trade negotiations continue with multiple countries, including those in Europe and Asia, Trump’s declaration places renewed emphasis on tariffs as a permanent fixture in the United States’ economic strategy moving forward.