On Tariff Lawsuit: "The Supreme Court Is Excellent and Fair"
"There Are Very Large Companies Seeking to Acquire TikTok's U.S. Business Rights"
On September 16 (local time), U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he could impose tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals that are even higher than the 25% tariff applied to automobiles.
Before departing the White House for a state visit to the United Kingdom that day, President Trump told reporters that he "did not make any compromises" regarding the recent reduction of auto tariffs for certain countries.
Previously, the United States lowered tariffs on automobiles from 25% to 15% in trade agreements with Japan, the European Union (EU), and South Korea. Among these, Japan is the only country where the 15% reduction has taken effect. This has led to some complaints that the U.S. auto industry could be negatively affected.
President Trump noted that he was the first to impose the 25% auto tariff, saying, "They paid no tariffs for years, but now they are paying 15%," and explained, "Semiconductors and pharmaceuticals have higher profit margins, so they can be subject to even higher tariffs."
He had previously mentioned the possibility of imposing tariffs of up to 100% on semiconductors and 150% to 250% on pharmaceuticals.
Additionally, President Trump claimed, "The EU is paying $950 billion and Japan is paying $650 billion in tariffs to the United States," adding, "These are companies and countries that did not pay a single cent before I took office."
Regarding the ongoing tariff lawsuit in the U.S. Supreme Court, President Trump said, "All legal experts say we have won, but we have to wait and see," adding, "I think the Supreme Court is excellent and very fair." He continued, "If we win, the United States will become the wealthiest country in the world, we will reduce the debt of our citizens, and we will be able to help not only the United States but also other countries."
After lower courts ruled that the reciprocal tariffs based on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were illegal, the Supreme Court is currently reviewing the case. Of the nine Supreme Court justices, six are considered conservative, leading to predictions that a ruling favorable to President Trump may be issued.
Furthermore, President Trump reaffirmed that an agreement had been reached regarding the sale of TikTok during high-level U.S.-China trade negotiations.
He said, "We have reached an agreement with China, and I plan to finalize everything in a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday (the 19th)," adding that "there are some very large companies seeking to acquire TikTok's U.S. business."
Meanwhile, President Trump began a three-day state visit to London, United Kingdom, on this day. This marks his second state visit during his presidency, making him the first U.S. president to make two state visits to the United Kingdom. During this trip, President Trump is scheduled to meet with King Charles III and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Upon arriving at Winfield House, the U.S. ambassador's residence in London, President Trump said, "Tomorrow will be a very important day."
Regarding his return to the United Kingdom, President Trump said, "I love the United Kingdom. I love Turnberry and Aberdeen (cities in Scotland). There are many things here that warm my heart. This is truly a special place." Speaking about King Charles III, he said, "We will meet him tomorrow. He has been my friend for a long time. Everyone respects and loves him."
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