Donald Trump's tariff announcement: Date, time and where to watch US reciprocal measures

US President Donald Trump is set to announce a sweeping set of “reciprocal” tariffs targeting both allies and adversaries on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in a move he has dubbed “Liberation Day.”

The announcement, aimed at revitalising American manufacturing and addressing what Trump calls decades of unfair trade practices, will be delivered from the White House Rose Garden,

The new tariffs, set to take effect immediately upon announcement, build on recent measures including a 25% tax on auto imports, along with levies targeting China, Canada, and Mexico, and additional duties on steel and aluminum.

Speaking to reporters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said April 2 will go down as “one of the most important days in modern American history.”

Trump has framed the reciprocal tariffs as a response to higher duties and non-tariff barriers imposed by other nations, which he claims disadvantage US exports.

While details remain under wraps, the plan will likely introduce “country-based” tariffs, with sectoral duties to follow at a later date.

Some reports suggest a possible 20% universal tariff is under consideration, though the final structure is yet to be confirmed.

The administration contends that the tariffs will spur domestic production and generate factory jobs, though the full scope of “Liberation Day” and its economic fallout remain to be seen as the world awaits Trump’s remarks.

“They’re not going to be wrong,” Leavitt said. “It is going to work. And the president has a brilliant team of advisers who have been studying these issues for decades. And we are focused on restoring the golden age of America and making America a manufacturing superpower.”

When will Trump announce reciprocal tariffs?

The tariffs will be announced at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (1:30 am IST).

Trump’s address will be broadcast live on the White House’s social media platforms. News channels across the globe are also expected to air the addresss live.

Cabinet members, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, are expected to attend the event, alongside trade advisors Peter Navarro, Kevin Hassett, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy.