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What’s next for trade?

A former U.S. trade negotiator says she’s watching President Trump’s response as three of the top export markets for U.S. agriculture retaliate in a new trade war.

Reciprocal tariffs are expected on all countries that levy taxes on U.S. exports starting in April, but Sharon Bomer Lauritsen with AgTrade Strategies LLC says a lot can happen between now and then.

“I think a lot will depend on how further actions are taken. I’m sure the European Union is currently in the sights of the president as well. It remains to be seen how the U.S. economy weathers the storm.”

After the United States issued tariffs on imports from China, Canada and Mexico on Tuesday, China retaliated with an additional 10 to 15% tariffs on certain U.S. imports that include soybeans, beef, cotton, sorghum, pork, tree nuts, wheat and corn. Canada has launched a 25% tariff on U.S. imports, which includes citrus and poultry, and that could include more products if the tariffs are still in effect at the end of the month. Mexico has vowed retaliation and their response is expected on Sunday.

On social media, President Trump told farmers to start making a lot of product to be sold within the United States before tariffs go into effect on April 2. Bomer Lauritsen says it’s a confusing message.

“The executive order said the quote on quote investigation would begin then and the posting on social media is a little different than what was said by the president.”

Bomer Lauritsen says she’s been taking in the Trump administration’s trade actions one day at a time.