Trump Adviser Blames Australia for US Aluminum Market Crisis

Peter Navarro, a senior trade advisor to President Trump, has claimed that Australia is 'killing' the U.S. aluminum market, which poses a challenge for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's efforts to secure exemptions from impending tariffs. Following a phone conversation between Trump and Albanese, Navarro's comments indicate a hardening stance against Australia's aluminum imports, which he says are flooding U.S. markets. While Trump suggested he would 'greatly consider' an exemption for Australia, Navarro's remarks highlight a belief that Australia is undermining U.S. manufacturing. The aluminum industry in the U.S. is reportedly operating at only 50% capacity compared to 90% in Australia, with imports from Australia more than doubling since previous years. These developments come as the Albanese government faces pressure to protect local industries ahead of upcoming elections. The U.S. administration's tariff strategy has met with criticism from various countries, including Canada and Brazil, who have expressed concerns over its fairness and implications for trade relations.