We do. And we want Australia and other like nations to enact high tariffs against China. And if that means a 100% (or more) tax on their cars... fine. It will take a concerted effort of all partners, not just the US, to bring China to a fair trading position.
Per AI
President Trump has not explicitly encouraged U.S. free trade partners to impose high tariffs on China, but his actions have indirectly pressured other nations to align with his aggressive trade stance. Trump's administration has escalated tariffs on Chinese imports to unprecedented levels, reaching 145%, while granting temporary pauses or exemptions for other trading partners. This approach has led many countries to seek concessions or negotiate reduced tariffs with the U.S., rather than retaliating against China.
China, however, has responded differently by matching Trump's tariffs, increasing its duties on U.S. goods to 125%, and refusing to negotiate under pressure. Analysts suggest that Trump's strategy is aimed at compelling China to engage in negotiations by creating economic strain, but this approach has also disrupted global markets and strained relations with trade allies.
While Trump's policies have focused on targeting China specifically, there is no direct evidence that he has encouraged other nations to adopt similar high tariffs against China. Instead, his administration's actions have largely been unilateral and centered on reshaping U.S.-China trade dynamics.
So then why put a 10% tariff on Australia if they do not tariff American products?
If we want them to ally with us against China, then antagonizing them is not a smart move.