Tiny outposts populated
by penguins and small island nations are among some of the
places targeted by the Trump administration’s new
tariffs.
Tokelau, a non-self-governing territory of
New Zealand with a population of about 1500 people, has
received a 10 percent tariff.
A government
spokesperson, Aukusitino Vitale, told Morning Report
he had no warning the tariff was coming, despite
weekly contact with US officials.
“I was quite
surprised to see Tokelua to be mentioned with the 10 percent
tariffs.
“We have not had any communication with any
of the officials from the United States.”
He said
including small and remote nations on the list showed a
complete lack of research on the Trump Administration’s
part.
Tokelau did not export a lot to the United
States, Vitale added.
“We rely heavily on our tuna
fisheries, which of course we are part of the Pacific island
countries who are still waiting on America to make its
decision.”
He said the US hadn’t yet paid a tuna
fishing licence, which allowed its vessels to fish in
Pacific waters.
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The payment was due in March and would
contribute $7.4 million New Zealand dollars to
Tokelau.
“It’s quite a big portion that will be useful
for our budget,” he said.
Vitale said it was an
uncertain time for Tokelau, which was relying on New
Zealand’s help to get the money.
Tokelau residents are
New Zealand citizens.
“We are just relying on New
Zealand and their good relationship with the US to be a
negotiating table,” Vitale said.
“They have been
really helpful New Zealand to, you know, advancing us some
of the funds until we receive it – so that’s been a big
help.”
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