Albanese seeks one-on-one talks with Trump over U.S. tariffs

Reuters
Reuters

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday he expects to have a one-on-one discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding tariffs, as Washington prepares to announce new trade measures on April 2.

Background on Tariff Dispute

Trump recently imposed steel and aluminium tariffs impacting Australian exports. Although Australia was previously exempted from similar tariffs during Trump's first presidential term, the looming announcement has raised concerns within Albanese’s government.

Speaking on the second day of campaigning for Australia’s May 3 general election, Albanese stated his government has been engaging constructively with U.S. officials about the issue. He confirmed plans to discuss the matter directly with Trump, saying, "We'll have a one-on-one discussion."

Political Context

Albanese's Labour government is campaigning on affordable healthcare and tackling price gouging by supermarkets as key election issues. His opponent, Peter Dutton of the Liberal-National coalition, has focused on housing affordability and proposed the adoption of nuclear power for the country.

Albanese’s handling of relations with Trump has emerged as a critical topic in the election, with both leaders vying to present themselves as the better choice for managing U.S.-Australia ties. Albanese highlighted previous communication with Trump, including two phone calls and early meetings between the countries' defence and foreign ministers.

Election Dynamics

After enjoying a strong lead for much of his term, Albanese’s approval ratings are now closer to those of his opponent Peter Dutton, a former police officer and defence minister. As the campaign progresses, the issue of U.S. tariffs could play a pivotal role in shaping voter perceptions ahead of the May 3 election.

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