White House: "Some Uncertainty Will Remain Until Mutual Tariff Announcement"

Hassett: "Uncertainty Will Be Resolved After the Announcement"

Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the U.S. White House National Economic Council (NEC), forecasted that there will be some economic uncertainty until the announcement of the reciprocal tariffs promised by U.S. President Donald Trump, but that uncertainty will be resolved afterward.

Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the United States White House National Economic Council (NEC). Photo by EPA Yonhap News

In an interview with CNBC on the 17th (local time), Chairman Hassett said, "There will definitely be some uncertainty from now until April 2," adding, "However, when April comes, the market will realize that the reciprocal trade policy is very reasonable."

He further predicted that after April 2, the uncertainty surrounding the market will dissipate, CNBC reported. Hassett's remarks are interpreted as an effort to ultimately ease the pervasive uncertainty in the market and reassure investors.

The reciprocal tariffs are expected to be a significant milestone in the so-called "tariff war," as President Trump appears to be considering both tariff rates and non-tariff barriers imposed by various countries on the U.S.

Since the 12th, President Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum products imported into the United States. In response, Chairman Hassett emphasized that the current uncertainty is temporary, as the U.S. stock market has been shaken and concerns about an economic recession have been raised.

Additionally, Chairman Hassett evaluated the tariffs imposed on Mexico, Canada, and China in connection with the issues of illegal immigrants and drug inflows through the southern and northern borders, stating, "The situation regarding tariff policy is developing very positively," and assessed that significant progress has been made in border security.