U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is set to defend President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs in congressional testimony, framing them as necessary corrections to decades of flawed trade policies. While the tariffs have caused financial market volatility, Greer insists they are already producing results by pushing foreign governments to offer concessions.
Trade Chief to Address Senate Finance Committee
Jamieson Greer, the U.S. Trade Representative, will appear before the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday, just days after President Trump’s major tariff hike took effect. Greer is expected to frame the administration’s trade strategy as a long-overdue shift in U.S. economic policy. The testimony is part of annual hearings on the president’s trade agenda, which are under intense scrutiny this year.
Greer: Tariffs Are Producing Results
In prepared remarks obtained by POLITICO, Greer claims that Trump’s new tariff policy is already achieving results. “Nearly 50 countries have approached me to discuss the president’s new policy,” he says, noting that countries like Argentina, Vietnam, and Israel have shown a willingness to reduce tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers.
Citing Economic Impact and Strategic Goals
Greer acknowledges the economic disruption caused by the tariffs but argues they are necessary to reverse the decline of American manufacturing. He points out that the U.S. trade deficit has built up over 30 years and cannot be fixed overnight. Citing job losses since the 1990s, he places significant blame on trade agreements like China’s entry into the World Trade Organization in 2001.
Economic Vision: Production Over Finance
Greer outlines a vision for the future U.S. economy—less reliant on financial markets and government spending, and more focused on the production of tangible goods and services. “This adjustment may be challenging at times,” he notes, calling it “a moment of drastic, overdue change.”
Tariff Details and Global Response
Last week, Trump implemented a baseline 10% tariff on nearly all imports, and up to 50% on imports from 60 countries with the largest trade surpluses with the U.S. These measures have prompted global backlash, with retaliatory tariffs from major partners like China. The moves have also rattled financial markets, sparking fears of a possible recession due to higher consumer prices and export losses.
Mixed Messages from the White House
The Trump administration has not clearly defined whether the new tariffs are permanent or negotiable. While some officials have signaled potential for country-by-country deals, others have emphasized a longer-term strategy to rebalance trade.
Greer to Face Lawmakers Across Two Days
After addressing the Senate Finance Committee, Greer will testify again on Wednesday before the House Ways and Means Committee, which has oversight over tax and trade policy. His statements are expected to reinforce the administration’s stance that the tariffs are not only justified but also already effective in reshaping global trade behavior.
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