Washington, D.C. – President Trump’s controversial tariff strategy came under scrutiny at a Senate Finance Committee hearing on Tuesday, where U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer defended the administration’s tough stance on global trade imbalances.
Senator Ron Wyden pressed Greer with pointed questions about the administration’s long-term vision. “Our economy is in purgatory. U.S.-made products are being shut out of markets globally,” Wyden said. “What’s the plan?”
In response, Greer pointed to America’s growing trade deficit, noting that the U.S. has lost 5 million manufacturing jobs and over 90,000 factories since 1994. The trade deficit in goods hit a staggering $1.2 trillion in 2024, prompting the President to act.
“Last Wednesday, President Trump declared a national emergency to address this growing crisis,” Greer stated.
“The imbalance is driven by non-reciprocal tariffs and barriers from other countries.”
Global Response to U.S. Tariff Measures
Greer emphasized that the President’s approach is “already bearing fruit.” He revealed that nearly 50 countries — including India, Brazil, and Israel — have reached out to discuss ways to lower their tariffs and align more fairly with U.S. trade policies.
“Countries are coming to the table. They’re seeing the writing on the wall,” Greer said.
“Several have suggested lowering their tariffs in response to our new stance.”
Unequal Trade Examples
Greer offered real-world examples of trade inequality:
- The EU bans shellfish from 48 U.S. states, while the U.S. allows European shellfish freely.
- The U.S. charges only 2.5% tariff on Brazilian ethanol, while Brazil imposes 18% on American ethanol.
- India’s average tariff on agricultural goods is 39%, compared to 5% for the U.S.
“These aren’t just numbers. They reflect lost jobs, shuttered factories, and missed opportunities for American workers,” Greer said.
Signs of Progress
Greer announced that a major layoff in Tennessee had been suspended, and an automaker in Indiana is now hiring. U.S. companies have reportedly announced $4 trillion in new investments following the tariff shift.
“This didn’t happen overnight. Our trade deficit has been building for over 30 years. But we’re moving in the right direction,” he said.
Greer concluded by stating that the U.S. must pivot away from an economy based only on financial speculation and move toward “producing real goods and services” — a strategy he believes will empower both the working and middle class.