Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed strong disapproval of U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 10% tariff on Australian goods, calling it "not the act of a friend."

However, Albanese ruled out imposing similar tariffs on the U.S. in response, emphasizing that such a move would raise costs for Australian families, Reuters reported.

Trump has singled out Australian beef exports during a speech confirming a 10% tariff on all Australian products. Following the move, Australia plans to engage in negotiations with the U.S. to lift the tariffs, avoiding the need for a formal dispute resolution process under the two countries' Free Trade Agreement.

"The (Trump) administration's tariffs have no basis in logic and they go against the basis of our two nations' partnership. This is not the act of a friend," Albanese told reporters. "We will not join a race to the bottom that leads to higher prices and slower growth."

With the Australian parliamentary elections approaching on May 3, Opposition Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton criticized Albanese for failing to secure a tariff exemption for Australia. Dutton argued that Australia should use its valuable, critical minerals and defense alliance with the U.S. to quickly reach a deal with Trump.

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