Queensland Steps Up to Shield Exporters from US Tariff Shock

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Queensland is taking a more active approach to protect Australian exporters amid growing challenges from the United States’ latest round of tariff hikes. With over 200 local businesses already consulted through government-led roundtables, the state is demonstrating early engagement in response to uncertain trade conditions. These discussions are part of a broader effort by Queensland authorities to mitigate the fallout from US trade policies that are beginning to hit Australian industries hard, particularly in steel and aluminium.

In April, the United States imposed a sweeping 10 percent baseline tariff on most imported goods, a move aimed at tightening its trade balance and bolstering domestic manufacturing. Australian goods, despite historically strong trade ties, have not been exempt. Worse still, a steep 50 percent tariff has been slapped on Australian steel and aluminium imports to the US, marking a sharp rise from the already burdensome 25 percent imposed just months earlier. According to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), this change, effective from June 4, threatens to undermine Australia’s competitiveness in key export markets.

 While the federal government has yet to announce significant measures, the Queensland Government has taken direct steps to listen and respond to the concerns of exporters. Through industry engagement, they are exploring ways to help businesses navigate the new tariff landscape, whether through market diversification strategies, domestic manufacturing incentives, or better trade representation. 

Queensland has moved proactively, while Australia’s international trade position faces challenges from recent foreign economic policies. The roundtables are designed not just to gather feedback but to drive policy that works on the ground, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The latest developments pose broader questions for trade governance and economic policy responses. While other parts of the country wait on federal intervention, Queensland is demonstrating that states have a vital role to play in protecting Australia’s economic sovereignty. With more decisive action and targeted support, Queensland’s example could help shape a stronger, more resilient national export strategy. In times of global volatility, action speaks louder than policy statements, and Queensland is showing that leadership doesn’t always come from Canberra.