If America slows, how might it hit India, others?
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. Early indicators suggest that the US economy is slowing down. This, even before the adverse effect of President Donald Trump’s policies such as additional import tariffs kick-in.
Mint looks at the factors causing the slowdown and what it means for rest of the world. In 2024, the US gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 2.8% as against 2.9% in 2023. The year started on a sluggish note.
The first quarter GDP growth at just 1.6% was the lowest posted since Q3 of 2022. But it picked up in the second and third quarters to 3% and 3.1% respectively due to higher consumer and government spending, better private investment and improved exports. However, growth slowed down again in the fourth quarter to 2.3% as private investment eased and exports declined.
It was the strong consumer and government spending that contributed to the growth. Yes. Soon after assuming office, Trump levied a 25% duty on all imports from Canada and Mexico, the US’ largest trading partners—followed by a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
The tariffs on Canada and Mexico, kept in abeyance for a month, took effect on 4 March. He has also imposed a 25% tariff on aluminium and steel imports effective 12 March. Also read | Soon after assuming office, Trump levied a 25% duty on all imports from Canada and Mexico Another 10% duty has been imposed on China.
Trump has also threatened reciprocal tariffs from April. China, Canada and Mexico have retaliated with their own duties on American products after the latest round of tariffs. In other words, a full-blown trade war is underway.
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