- Published 2026.11.06 13:59
"Removing tariffs would halt factory construction"
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Nov. 5 (local time) that foreign companies that do not build factories in the United States could face tariffs of up to 300%.
The remarks are seen as signaling his intention to maintain the existing tariff policy amid attention on whether he would shift course after the Republican Party's crushing defeat in the midterm elections.
Trump told reporters at the White House that foreign companies are building about 3,000 factories and production facilities in the United States. "If I remove the tariffs now, all of these factories will stop construction," he said.
He said 99% of companies build factories in the United States because otherwise they would have to pay tariffs of 50%, 100%, 150%, or 250%. "Once they start construction, and once they start operating, they don't have to pay tariffs," he said.
He reiterated that withdrawing tariffs would leave half-built factories across the United States and lead to imports from China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and others.
Trump stressed that once U.S. factories are operating, companies would not have to pay tariffs and prices would fall significantly. He also criticized those calling for tariff withdrawal as "foolish people."
The remarks came two days after the Republican Party's crushing defeat in the midterm elections. Despite the election loss, he reaffirmed his existing stance of using tariffs as a key trade tool.
However, it is unclear whether the 300% figure signals actual additional tariffs or is rhetoric to pressure investment in the United States.
Asked how he would use executive orders and protect his political legacy in his remaining two years in office, Trump said, "We will do a lot of things."
"You will see a lot in one week, two weeks. We have a lot in the works," he added.
He also left open the possibility of military action against Iran.
Trump said he has to decide between a deal with Iran or an attack. "If possible, I don't want to destroy the rest of Iran, but I may have to," he said.
He also claimed Iran would not do anything related to its nuclear program without U.S. approval.
On the possibility of replacing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump publicly drew a line, saying, "He is doing a fantastic job."
Concerns are also rising that Trump, whose domestic political standing has weakened after the midterm election defeat, could continue a hard-line approach in foreign policy, security, and trade, where the president has broad discretion.
※ This article is an AI translation of the Korean original published by Korea Credit News; it was checked by automated quality guards and published by the English edition desk.