Uninhabited Heard and McDonald Islands included in sweeping trade measures
In a surprising move, U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on a set of Australian territories—including Heard and McDonald Islands, a pair of uninhabited landmasses in the remote sub-Antarctic Indian Ocean. The islands, which have not seen human visitors in nearly a decade, were included in the broader trade measures announced as part of what Trump termed “Liberation Day tariffs.”
During a speech at the White House Rose Garden, Trump revealed a sweeping policy imposing a baseline 10% tariff on all U.S. trade partners. While major economies were bracing for new restrictions, the inclusion of uninhabited islands raised eyebrows.
According to Axios, a White House official confirmed that the islands were included simply because they are Australian territory. The policy applies not only to mainland Australia but also to its external territories, including the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Christmas Island, and Norfolk Island.
A tax on uninhabited land?
Trump’s tariff announcement was accompanied by printed sheets listing affected regions, including Heard and McDonald Islands. One document noted that the islands currently impose a 10% “Tariff to the USA,” citing “currency manipulation and trade barriers” as justification for Washington’s retaliatory measures.
An official Australian government website describes the islands as “one of the wildest and remotest places on Earth.” According to the Australian Antarctic Program, it takes approximately 10 days to reach Heard Island by ship from Fremantle, Western Australia. The territory is home to various conservation-protected species, including penguins, seals, and seabirds.
Despite their remoteness, the islands have now found themselves caught in a global trade dispute.
Australian Prime Minister responds
The announcement triggered a reaction from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who took to social media to voice his concerns.
“These are uncertain times—but all Australians can be certain of this. These tariffs are not unexpected, but they are unwarranted,” Albanese posted on X. “Many other countries will be hit harder by today’s decision than Australia—and no nation is better prepared than Australia.”
His remarks reflected the broader uncertainty surrounding Trump’s latest trade policy, which has drawn criticism from multiple nations.
Norfolk Island hit with higher tariffs
While most Australian territories were subjected to the 10% tariff, Norfolk Island—home to just over 2,100 people—was hit with a significantly higher 29% tariff. The reason for this discrepancy was not immediately clear.
Trump’s latest round of tariffs signals a renewed focus on protectionist trade policies, further complicating economic relations between the U.S. and its global partners. While some of the targeted regions may have little to no direct impact on trade, their inclusion underscores the unpredictability of Washington’s evolving stance on international commerce.
