Australia braces for potential trade tensions with Trump re-election

Australian leaders are preparing for potential trade conflicts with the U.S. following Donald Trump's likely re-election. Concerns center on Trump's plans to impose tariffs on major imports, which could impact Australian jobs, particularly in steel and aluminum. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed willingness to work with Trump, emphasizing the importance of the U.S.-Australia alliance. While experts believe Trump may support the AUKUS defense deal, they warn he could expect Australia to contribute more financially. Former leaders and diplomats noted that Trump's administration could create a less stable global order. They highlighted the need for Australia to navigate potential tariff challenges, recalling past negotiations that secured exemptions for Australian exports.