Addressing a debate in preparation for the May 3 general elections, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese conveyed a positive outlook regarding his nation’s capacity to endure the economic fallout from Donald Trump’s tariff policies.

Albanese described the tariffs as “economic self-sabotage” that would inhibit global prosperity, but stated that “no other nation is as well-equipped” as Australia to manage such challenges.

The US tariffs include a 10% levy on Australia.

Emphasizing Australia’s strategic position, Albanese declared the nation’s intention to explore expanded trade opportunities within the Asia-Pacific region.

“We will continue to seek better arrangements with the United States, aiming for a mutually beneficial deal since reciprocal tariffs would ideally equate to zero, given that we do not impose tariffs on American goods,” Albanese commented.

With Albanese’s center-left Labor Party holding a slender lead over the conservative Liberal-National Party coalition led by Peter Dutton, the political tension is palpable. During a televised town hall debate in Sydney, Dutton criticized Albanese’s handling of the tariffs, arguing that a prime minister must have the resolve to stand up to intimidation and protect the nation’s interests.