President-elect Donald Trump has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish the “External Revenue Service” (ERS), a new federal agency tasked with collecting tariffs, duties, and other revenues from foreign entities engaged in trade with the United States. The move is aimed at reducing the tax burden on American citizens while ensuring that foreign nations contribute their fair share to the U.S. economy.
A Vision for Economic Independence
The ERS will spearhead Trump’s effort to restructure America’s revenue system by focusing on external sources of income rather than relying on domestic taxpayers. Key elements of the plan include:
- Universal Tariffs: A 10% tariff on all imports into the United States.
- Regional Adjustments: Higher tariffs, such as 25% on goods from Canada and Mexico.
- Targeted Action on China: A 60% tariff on Chinese imports, addressing longstanding concerns over unfair trade practices.
Trump described the initiative as a cornerstone of his strategy to “make America more prosperous by ensuring our economic competitors are paying their share.”
Economic Benefits
The ERS aims to fund critical infrastructure projects and other domestic priorities by leveraging the massive volume of imported goods flowing into the U.S. This approach promises to alleviate the financial burden on hardworking American families, shifting it to foreign governments and corporations that benefit from access to the U.S. market.
“We’re finally putting America first,” Trump stated. “Foreign nations have taken advantage of our markets for too long without contributing back. This changes now.”
A Clear Path Forward
The plan aligns with Trump’s broader economic vision, which emphasizes restoring manufacturing, creating jobs, and reasserting U.S. dominance in global trade. Supporters of the initiative argue that the ERS will not only generate substantial revenue but also incentivize domestic production by leveling the playing field for American businesses.
“By taxing imports, we’re encouraging businesses to invest here at home,” said a senior economic adviser to Trump. “This is about economic sovereignty.”
A Strategic Shift
Unlike the existing system, where U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects tariffs, the ERS will operate as a specialized agency solely focused on maximizing external revenue streams. This innovative approach represents a significant step toward achieving Trump’s goal of reducing dependence on domestic taxes.
Support for the Initiative
Trump’s announcement has been met with enthusiasm from conservative economists and industry leaders, who view it as a bold solution to America’s economic challenges. The incoming administration has emphasized that the ERS will be a transparent and efficient agency designed to prioritize the interests of American citizens.
“This isn’t just a policy—it’s a promise to the American people that their hard-earned money won’t be wasted while foreign entities profit,” said Vice President-elect J.D. Vance.
Looking Ahead
With the ERS as a cornerstone of his economic agenda, Trump is set to transform how America generates revenue. The initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to putting American interests first while ensuring fairness in international trade.
As implementation details are finalized, the ERS represents a major step toward fulfilling Trump’s pledge to “Make America Great Again” through innovation, accountability, and economic resilience.