UN Trade Chief Says Tariff Delay Deepens Instability, Risks Long-Term US Pain

The director of the United Nations’ main trade agency warned that Washington’s tariff stand-off is extending a period of uncertainty that is already unsettling global commerce. A postponement of reciprocal duties, the official said, is prolonging instability in supply chains and investment decisions. According to the agency, developing economies remain the hardest hit, facing what it described as a “dual shock” from shrinking development aid and higher trade barriers. While the immediate burden is falling on poorer nations, the director cautioned that the tariffs will also weigh on the United States in the long run, dampening growth prospects well beyond the 145 % levy Washington imposed on Chinese goods in April.