In a move that sent shockwaves through diplomatic and business circles, former US President Donald Trump has directly linked international trade to domestic immigration policy, setting a potentially explosive precedent.
According to a exclusive report, Trump issued a private ultimatum to South Korea's largest automaker, Hyundai. He threatened to unleash devastating tariffs on the company unless the South Korean government makes significant changes to its immigration and visa system.
A New Era of Transactional Diplomacy
This revelation exposes a hardline, transactional approach to foreign policy, where favourable trade conditions are contingent upon a nation's compliance with US domestic policy demands. The threat specifically targets one of South Korea's most vital economic assets, signalling a willingness to leverage economic power for political gains.
The proposed tariffs, which could be as high as 25%, would be a severe blow to Hyundai's competitiveness in the critical American market, potentially costing the company billions and disrupting global supply chains.
Implications for Global Trade
Analysts suggest this strategy, if enacted, could fundamentally reshape international relations and trade agreements. It moves beyond traditional negotiations over tariffs and subsidies, instead using them as a blunt instrument to force compliance on unrelated social and political issues.
The automotive industry, which operates on intricate, just-in-time manufacturing processes, is particularly vulnerable to such geopolitical threats. The news has already caused concern among other major exporters and multinational corporations who fear becoming pawns in a wider political game.
This report underscores the volatile nature of trade relations and the potential for economic tools to be weaponised for political objectives on the global stage.
