Dumb Trump Implements Tariffs on Uninhabited Islands: “Taxing Penguins!?”

A cluster of desolate, uninhabited volcanic islands situated near Antarctica, known for their glacier cover and penguin inhabitants, has become entangled in Trump’s trade conflict, as the U.S. imposed a 10% tariff on goods originating from these islands.

Heard Island and McDonald Islands, designated as an external territory of Australia, rank among the most isolated locations globally. Access to these islands requires an arduous two-week sea journey departing from Perth, located on the western coast of Australia. Notably uninhabited, the islands have not been visited by people for nearly a decade.

Nevertheless, the White House has included Heard and McDonald Islands in a newly released list of territories that will face the implementation of new trade tariffs.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned on Thursday that “nowhere on Earth is safe.”

Heard Island and McDonald Islands, categorized as “external territories” of Australia, have been distinctly mentioned in the tariff schedule for Australia. This update will result in a 10% tariff being levied on goods from these territories.

Australia’s external territories are integral parts of the nation, operating under the jurisdiction of the federal government yet maintaining a distinctive administrative relationship with it. These territories are not self-governing.