US President-elect Donald Trump has named Jamieson Greer as his trade representative, a key appointment as Trump prepares to implement his ambitious trade agenda after taking office on January 20, 2025.
The announcement follows Trump’s renewed threats to impose steep tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. The proposed tariffs aim to curb what Trump describes as illegal flows of people and drugs into the United States while addressing long-standing trade imbalances.
Greer’s Track Record and Role
Greer, a trade attorney and former US Air Force officer, played a central role during Trump’s first term in imposing tariffs on China and negotiating the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Trump praised Greer’s qualifications, stating that his focus would include “reining in the country’s massive trade deficit, defending American manufacturing, agriculture, and services, and opening up export markets everywhere.”
During Trump’s previous administration, Greer served as chief of staff to then-US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. He was instrumental in shaping the trade war with China, which saw both nations impose tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods.
In his statement, Trump emphasized that the tariffs during his first term were intended to “spur the return of manufacturing jobs to America and reverse decades of disastrous trade policies.”
Greer’s appointment requires Senate confirmation.
Escalation of Tariff Threats
Earlier this week, Trump announced plans for new tariffs targeting America’s top trade partners. He pledged a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada and an additional 10% on goods from China.
The proposed measures have drawn sharp criticism from the targeted countries, which warned that such actions could disrupt not only their economies but also that of the United States.
Some analysts believe Trump’s tariff threats may be a negotiating tactic, but businesses are already reacting. Reports indicate that firms are stockpiling goods and adjusting supply chains in anticipation of economic fallout.
Kevin Hassett and Jay Bhattacharya Appointed to Key Roles
In addition to Greer, Trump unveiled two other high-profile appointments on Tuesday. Kevin Hassett, an economist who previously served as chairman of Trump’s Council of Economic Advisers, has been named the head of the White House National Economic Council.
Meanwhile, Stanford professor Jay Bhattacharya, a vocal critic of Covid-19 lockdowns, has been tapped to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Renewed Focus on Protectionist Trade Policies
Trump’s push for higher tariffs aligns with his long-standing policy of promoting American-made products by making imported goods more expensive. His incoming administration is packed with appointees known for their hawkish stance on China and their commitment to aggressive economic policies.
