IMF warns US tariffs threaten global economic stability

Friday 04 April 2025 - 09:00

By: Zahouani Ilham

IMF warns US tariffs threaten global economic stability

The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, issued a stark warning on Thursday regarding the potential consequences of new U.S. tariffs. She emphasized that the recently announced trade measures pose a serious threat to global economic prospects, urging the United States and its trade partners to ease tensions and reduce uncertainty.

In a statement, Georgieva noted that while the IMF is still analyzing the full macroeconomic impact of the tariffs, there is already clear evidence that they could significantly damage an already fragile global growth outlook. She stressed the need to avoid any additional steps that might further harm the international economy.

Georgieva called on Washington and its allies to engage in constructive dialogue, highlighting the importance of cooperation to lower trade tensions and restore predictability. She also mentioned that the IMF will release a comprehensive assessment of global economic forecasts during its upcoming Spring Meetings with the World Bank, scheduled for April 21–26 in Washington.

This warning follows a recent executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced a 10% tariff on all imported goods, along with additional punitive import taxes tailored to each of 60 countries that his advisors claim maintain the toughest trade barriers against American products.

Under the new measures, Chinese goods will face a 34% tariff, Indian products 26%, Japanese exports 24%, and imports from European Union countries 20%. Furthermore, vehicles imported into the U.S. will be subject to a 25% tariff. President Trump defended the policy, claiming it would help restore American wealth.