Australia seeks deal to end tariff dispute, but Trump’s demands unclear

Australia on Sunday said it aims to propose a deal to US President Donald Trump that he cannot refuse, in an effort to end the ongoing tariff war.

"What we need to do is find out what it is that the Americans want in terms of the relationship between Australia and the United States, and then make President Trump an offer he can't refuse," Trade Minister Don Farrell said in an interview with Sky News.

According to Farrell, Canberra remains uncertain about what the Trump administration seeks in exchange for a tariff exemption.

Farrell, who spoke with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Friday, described the discussion as "not a pessimistic conversation" but noted that Lutnick "gave no assurances about what might happen in the next round of negotiations."

He said he plans to hold another meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Tuesday.

Washington imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum exports from several countries, including Australia, after Canberra failed to secure an exemption. The tariffs took effect earlier this week.

Australia had previously offered a guaranteed supply of critical minerals in an attempt to avoid the steel and aluminum tariffs, but the US rejected the proposal.

Farrell reiterated that, unlike some other countries, Australia would not impose retaliatory tariffs on the US.