Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, on an official visit to India, delivered a pointed critique of the United States’ tariff approach during a high-level event in Mumbai focused on an India–European Union free trade agreement.
Without naming him directly, De Wever referred to US President Donald Trump while describing what he called unpredictable trade actions—imposing duties, withdrawing them, and then reintroducing them within days.
He said voices are rising globally against trade barriers, market blockades and additional tariffs, arguing that such steps can choke commerce when taken arbitrarily.
De Wever also drew a contrast with what he described as a more structured strategy of market disruption, pointing to countries like China and alleging efforts to make other nations dependent.
He stressed that open markets and strong economic partnerships are essential in the current global environment.
