Israel Eliminates All Remaining Tariffs on US Imports Ahead of Trump’s Tariff Announcement.

Israel has abolished all remaining tariffs on U.S. imports, effective April 1, 2025, in a preemptive move ahead of expected new tariffs from the Trump administration.

The decision, approved by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, eliminates around $11.3 million in annual duties, mostly on agricultural products like meat, dairy, and fresh produce.

This step aligns with the U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and aims to avoid potential retaliatory tariffs from the U.S., particularly as former President Donald Trump has signaled a return to aggressive trade policies if re-elected.

The measure still requires final approval from Israel’s parliamentary finance committee but is seen as a strategic effort to strengthen economic ties with Washington.

The move follows similar actions by other U.S. allies, such as the EU and Japan, which have also adjusted trade policies in anticipation of Trump’s potential second-term tariffs.

Critics in Israel argue the decision could hurt local farmers, while supporters say it secures vital U.S. trade relations.