U.S. President Donald Trump has said that his focus is not on producing everyday clothing items, but rather on manufacturing military equipment and advanced technology within the country.
Speaking to reporters in New Jersey on Sunday, Trump stated, “We don’t want to make shoes or T-shirts. We want to make tanks, warships, computers, and artificial intelligence (AI) technology.”
He expressed agreement with a recent comment by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who said that expanding the textile industry in the U.S. is not essential. Though Bessent faced criticism for the remark, Trump backed the sentiment.
“T-shirts and socks can easily be made in other countries,” Trump added. “But big things—like chips, AI technology, and tanks—need to be made here at home.”
Trump also hinted at imposing more tariffs, including a potential 50% duty on European Union products and a 25% import tariff on foreign-made iPhones.
