Part 2/8:
While the rate itself aligns with prior expectations, the implications for Australia remain complex. The tariff, described as reciprocal, applies to Australian exports, effectively meaning that Australia faces similar tariffs on its goods as the United States levies domestically or on other trading partners.
Furthermore, there was speculation the tariff could have been significantly higher — as much as 15% to 20% — a possibility floated during discussions involving U.S. trade officials, indicating considerable negotiation limits had already been reached.