22 Aug 2025

Slim chance of government securing lower US tariff rate

From Checkpoint, 4:48 pm on 22 August 2025

The chances of the government securing a lower US tariff rate for exports are looking slim to none. US President Donald Trump revised tariff rates in August, lifting New Zealand's from 10% to 15%. Minister Todd McClay was in Washington DC this week, arguing it unfairly penalises local exporters for what is a small trade deficit. But his efforts appear to have disappeared. Political reporter Anneke Smith spoke to Lisa Owen.