Donald Trump has published the Albanian government a crushing blow after he has refused to grant Australia an exemption from its rates for steel and aluminum imports.
White House Pers Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed that Australia would not be exempt during a press conference in the White House on Wednesday (AEDT).
Mrs. Leavitt was asked if Australia would be saved from the 25 percent rates and said that the Australian media Trump had 'considered and considered it'.
“There will be no exemptions,” said Mrs. Leavitt.
She added that the United States gave priority to 'American-First Steel' and that Australia should consider it to move steel production 'to the United States to be exempt from the rates.
The rates are imposed from 3 p.m. on Wednesday (AEDT).
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Monday that the government would 'continue to be constructive' with the United States on exemption from the rates.
“It is in the interest of Australia, but it is also in the economic interests of the United States to release Australia,” said Mr Albanese.
It comes after Trump told Albanese last month that he would give the prospect of an exemption 'Great consideration'.
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