Washington, Mar 25 (V7N) – President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States will impose a 25% tariff on imports from any country that purchases oil or gasoline from Venezuela. This new measure targets Venezuela in retaliation for what Trump described as the country intentionally sending criminals into the U.S.

Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, claiming that Venezuela has been purposefully flooding the U.S. with migrants who are allegedly involved in criminal activities, such as gang membership. However, no evidence was provided to back these claims.

In his post, Trump also stated that Venezuela has been hostile to the U.S. and its values. He explained that, as a result, any country that buys oil or gasoline from Venezuela will face a 25% tariff on any goods traded with the U.S.

The tariff is set to go into effect on April 2, coinciding with the start of Trump’s long-promised reciprocal tariffs. These tariffs are intended to apply to countries that have trade imbalances with the U.S., with a planned uniform rate on imports. However, reports indicate that these reciprocal tariffs may target a smaller group of countries and will not focus on specific sectors.

Trump has previously used tariffs as a tool in his trade policies, which have raised concerns over their potential impact on the economy, especially regarding higher costs for consumers.

This announcement follows Trump’s recent use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, which allowed for the deportation of more than 200 Venezuelans allegedly linked to the Tren de Aragua gang. Although a federal judge blocked Trump's use of the law, the deportation flights continued.

Venezuela’s oil exports saw a 10.5% increase in 2024, with China being the largest importer, accounting for 68% of Venezuelan crude oil exports. The U.S. imported 23% of Venezuela’s oil, while Spain, Cuba, Singapore, Malaysia, and Russia made up smaller portions of the exports. Despite U.S. sanctions, which have reduced imports of Venezuelan oil, the country remains a key player in global oil markets.

The new tariffs are set to add more tension to the already complicated trade relations between the U.S. and Venezuela, as well as with other nations involved in Venezuelan oil exports.

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