- Stephen Miran suggests tariff policy shifts could come within weeks
- Administration faces pushback over 'burden sharing' demands
- Russia remains exempt amid Ukraine peace negotiations
Tariff Revisions on the Horizon
Stephen Miran, a key economic adviser to former President Donald Trump, indicated that changes to the administration's controversial tariff policies may be imminent. "I'd be surprised if tariffs don't change in a few weeks," Miran reportedly stated, though he declined to specify which rates might be adjusted.
The comments come as the administration faces mounting international criticism over its aggressive trade stance. Miran has been the architect of what he calls a "burden sharing" approach, demanding that countries affected by U.S. tariffs increase their purchases of American goods.
Russia's Special Exemption
Notably absent from recent tariff hikes is Russia, which continues to enjoy an exemption despite sweeping measures against nearly 50 other nations. Kevin Hassett, another Trump adviser, defended the special treatment, citing delicate peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. "This isn't the time to introduce new complications," Hassett told reporters last week.
Manufacturing Claims Under Scrutiny
The administration's justification for tariffs - including Miran's claims about declining U.S. manufacturing output - has faced increasing skepticism. While manufacturing employment has dropped, actual production nears 2007 peaks, according to Federal Reserve data. Several analysts have questioned whether tariffs can reverse automation trends that account for most job losses.
Multiple countries have reached out to negotiate tariff terms, with Hassett putting the number at "about 50" as of late April. Whether these discussions will lead to the policy shifts Miran hinted at remains unclear. The White House declined to comment when asked about specific timeline for potential changes.