Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, has recently addressed various topics related to global trade and tariffs under the administration of President Donald Trump. In his first live address to an Indian audience since assuming his role, Lutnick emphasized the impact of tariffs on international relations and domestic manufacturing.
Lutnick discussed the economic growth anticipated from Trump's policies, stating that "the Golden Age is coming," with significant investments being directed into American manufacturing. He mentioned a $1.3 trillion investment already announced and projected this figure could rise to $4 trillion by year-end, which would support job creation in the United States.
The Secretary also highlighted the administration's stance on combating illegal drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. He remarked, "America needs a president to protect people from fentanyl that shouldn't be killing people in our country." Lutnick criticized China for subsidizing precursors used in fentanyl production and called for stronger border controls with Canada and Mexico to curb its flow into the U.S.
In terms of trade policy, Lutnick clarified that current tariffs aim to save American lives rather than initiate a trade war. He stressed that starting April 2, there would be a clear reset in trade relations as part of Trump's strategy to rectify what he sees as unfair practices by other countries.
President Trump's objectives include boosting semiconductor chip manufacturing within the U.S., bringing auto manufacturing back home, and revitalizing industries in states like Michigan and Ohio through tariff policies set to begin on April 2.
Lutnick conveyed Trump's commitment to ensuring fairness in global trade: "We need fairness, and we need the strength of Donald Trump to make the world reasonable to America."
