Since Donald Trump began his second term as President of the United States on January 20, he has implemented a new wave of tariffs aimed at strengthening American industry and reducing reliance on foreign products. However, these measures have sparked a wave of reactions both in favor and against, both domestically and internationally.

The Trump administration has claimed that the 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will help level the playing field for local businesses. "President Trump was elected with a clear mandate to level the playing field for American manufacturers and workers using tariffs, and he is committed to fulfilling that mandate," said Kush Desai, a White House spokesperson, as reported by The New York Times.

However, not everyone views these measures favorably. The automotive industry has expressed concern over rising production costs. Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company, warned that tariffs could "blow a hole" in the U.S. auto industry, according to The New York Times.

The repercussions have also been felt abroad. Canada, the primary exporter of steel to the United States, has responded with retaliatory tariffs worth $21 billion. “Canada is being needlessly and unfairly targeted by these tariffs – and the U.S.’s decision leaves us with no choice but to respond to protect Canadian interests, workers and businesses. Working with provincial, territorial and industry partners, our singular focus is to get these tariffs removed as quickly as possible,” stated Dominic LeBlanc, Canada's Minister of Finance.

Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs said: “The United States has chosen to pursue a harmful course of action that threatens the prosperity of both our nations. Canada stands firm in defending our economy, workers and businesses against these unjustified tariffs.”

In Europe, reactions were swift. The European Commission described the tariffs as "a step in the wrong direction" and warned of imminent trade retaliation. "Tariffs are taxes. Jobs are at stake, prices are rising, and no one needs that," said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, according to The New York Times.

Despite the criticism, some industries have welcomed Trump's decision. "For too long, foreign companies have flooded our market with cheap steel products, preventing local businesses like ours from competing," said Stephen Capone, President of Capone Iron Corporation, as reported by The New York Times.

However, economists warn of possible negative effects on the U.S. economy. A major U.S. bank has downgraded its growth forecast due to tariff policies, according to News.com.au. At the same time, the United Steelworkers, one of the largest unions in the sector, has expressed concern over Canada’s inclusion in the tariffs, as it directly affects thousands of North American workers. "We call on the president to distinguish between trade cheaters and our trusted allies," said David McCall, union president, as reported by The New York Times.

Investor markets are also feeling the strain, with growing concerns about the impact of tariffs on global trade. Analysts warn that the uncertainty generated by these policies could undermine investor confidence. "Market volatility has increased with fears of a prolonged trade war," explained a report by Wolfe Research.

Meanwhile, in Congress, some Republican lawmakers have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of these measures. "We want to support American industry, but we also need to protect consumers from excessive prices," said Senator Marco Rubio, according to The New York Times.

As the trade war intensifies, the long-term effects of these tariff policies remain uncertain. Some foresee increasing inflationary pressures in the coming months. Meanwhile, both businesses and American consumers may face a future with higher costs and a more strained economy. What is certain is that Trump's decisions will continue to spark deep debate on the political and economic landscape of the United States and the world.