Albanese Rejects US Reciprocal Tariffs: Australia Prioritizes Economic Stability
The US rejected Australia’s request for an exemption from a 25% tariff on aluminum and steel imports, a decision Prime Minister Albanese called “entirely unjustified.” The Opposition criticized the government’s inability to secure an exemption, accusing Albanese of weakness in his dealings with the US. While the government plans to continue engagement, the White House confirmed no exemptions would be granted, citing a need to prioritize American steel production. This decision has drawn criticism for potentially harming the US economy and straining US-Australia relations.