The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed apprehension regarding the recently announced U.S. tariff measures, indicating that they may jeopardize an already vulnerable global economic forecast.
In a statement released on Thursday, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva noted that the organization is currently evaluating the comprehensive macroeconomic effects of the tariffs introduced by the U.S. government on Wednesday.
She underscored that these measures “clearly pose a significant risk to the global outlook during a period of sluggish growth.”
“It is crucial to refrain from actions that could further damage the world economy,” Georgieva warned, calling on the United States and its trading partners to pursue a constructive resolution to the ongoing trade disputes. “We urge the United States and its trading partners to collaborate effectively to address trade tensions and mitigate uncertainty.”
Georgieva also mentioned that the IMF’s evaluation of the tariffs’ effects will be included in its forthcoming World Economic Outlook, which is scheduled for release during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings later this month.
The IMF’s warning contributes to the increasing unease among economists and global leaders regarding the revival of protectionist policies and their potential to disrupt global supply chains, elevate inflationary pressures, and hinder recovery in emerging markets.