Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to make a crisis call to US President Donald Trump after the announcement of sweeping 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports. Australia, which exported $1 billion worth of these metals to the US in 2024, is seeking an exemption, emphasizing the shared defense and economic benefits of bilateral trade. Trade Minister Don Farrell highlighted Australia's role in creating "good-paying American jobs." The tariffs could significantly impact Australian exports and strain trade relations if exemptions are not granted.
Sources: Economic Times, SBS News, Reuters, The Conversation