Brief
G20 trade ministers meet in Milwaukee as Trump tariffs loom
Trade talks in Milwaukee face deadlock as US tariffs on forced labour and overcapacity pressure partners, France24 says.
By Felo News Desk · Published
G20 trade ministers began two days of talks on Wednesday in Milwaukee, United States, under the shadow of President Donald Trump's tariff policy, France24 reported.
The United States, holding the G20 rotating presidency, has announced double‑digit tariffs on 60 countries over forced‑labour concerns and is investigating 16 partners for excess industrial capacity, primarily targeting China. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told a round‑table in Milwaukee that the approach "is not anti‑trade" and that many countries face similar overcapacity challenges.
Analysts quoted by France24, including Josh Lipsky of the Atlantic Council, warned that no breakthroughs should be expected, noting Trump's preference for bilateral deals. Former US trade official Wendy Cutler, now with the Asia Society Policy Institute, said partners will be under pressure to voice concerns about the tariffs.
China has rejected the US accusations of overproduction, with Cutler noting that Chinese officials argue their exports provide high‑quality, low‑priced goods.
Key facts
- G20 trade ministers started talks in Milwaukee on 30 September 2026. (france24.com)
- The US has announced double‑digit tariffs on 60 countries over forced‑labour concerns. (france24.com)
- U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the US approach "is not anti‑trade". (france24.com)
- Analysts expect the talks to be deadlocked due to the tariff environment. (france24.com)
- Former US trade official Wendy Cutler said partners will feel pressure to raise tariff concerns. (france24.com)
What we don't know yet
- Exact list of the 60 countries targeted by the tariffs
- Specific sectors or products covered by the tariffs
Sources
- [1] france24.com — originally reported as “G20 meets in US as Trump’s tariffs loom over talks”
