US President Donald Trump has released an eight-point list highlighting non-tariff trade violations, warning countries that such practices may harm diplomatic and trade relations with the United States. He criticized the use of agricultural standards, targeting Europe’s ban on genetically modified corn, and dismissed protective technical standards as unfair.
On Sunday, Trump escalated trade tensions by accusing several nations of engaging in non-tariff fraud. He warned that continued violations could deteriorate ties with the U.S. His statement adds new pressure amid growing concerns of a global trade war.
The list includes currency devaluation, which Trump claims is done deliberately to keep exports competitive in the U.S. and make American products more expensive abroad. He also criticized VAT practices, where some countries impose taxes on imports and refund them on exports. Other points included dumping products at low prices, government export subsidies, and other financial supports.
Trump also condemned the use of transshipping to evade tariffs. He rejected the justification of agricultural standards and mocked Europe’s opposition to genetically modified corn. He highlighted Japan’s “bowling ball” test for car safety as an unfair technical barrier. He also voiced concern about piracy and tariff evasion methods.
This warning comes as Trump has already imposed tariffs on multiple countries. However, all except China have received a 90-day exemption. After China responded with its own tariffs, Trump hit back harder, raising tariffs to 145%, signaling a deepening global trade conflict.