US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States would impose new tariffs on select Antarctic territories, despite their complete lack of human habitation. Among the regions affected are the Heard and McDonald Islands, remote territories known for their rich biodiversity and harsh environment. This move is in line with Trump’s broader trade policy, which seeks to introduce reciprocal tariffs on various countries and territories.

During a press conference, Trump presented a poster highlighting the nations and regions subject to these new tariffs. Additional details were distributed in handouts, one of which stated that the Heard and McDonald Islands currently impose a 10% tariff on US goods. The document cited “currency manipulation and trade barriers” as justification for this measure. In response, the US has decided to introduce a reciprocal tariff at the same 10% rate.

Although largely uninhabited, the Heard and McDonald Islands are under Australian administration, primarily for conservation and scientific research. Designated as a World Heritage Site, the islands feature rugged landscapes, glaciers, and an active volcano on Heard Island. They serve as an essential habitat for penguins, seabirds, and elephant seals. Beyond these islands, the tariff policy has also impacted other Australian territories, with Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands facing a 10% tariff, while Norfolk Island has been subjected to a significantly higher 29% rate.

The move has raised legal and geopolitical questions, particularly concerning the Antarctic Treaty, which designates the continent for peaceful and scientific purposes and prevents nations from claiming sovereignty over its land. However, Australia has maintained jurisdiction over the surrounding waters, establishing a marine reserve in 2002 and further expanding its boundaries in 2023.

To safeguard its territorial claims and prevent security threats such as piracy and environmental damage, Australia’s Defense Force patrols the waters surrounding these remote islands as part of Operation Resolute. Despite being uninhabited, these regions occasionally see visits from research vessels, commercial fishing ships, and even tourists, according to reports from the Australian Antarctic Division.

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