KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ daily evening briefing, bringing you the most important developments from Nepal and around the world. From politics and the economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we provide a concise summary of the day’s top stories. Here are today’s key highlights:

PM KP Sharma Oli and Indian PM Narendra Modi to Hold Talks in Thailand: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are set to hold a meeting in Thailand on Friday (April 4) at 4 PM, according to sources from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Although efforts for their meeting had been ongoing from the beginning, confirmation from the Indian side was uncertain. However, continuous diplomatic efforts from Nepal have now secured the meeting at the last moment.

Prime Minister Oli has already arrived in Thailand, while PM Modi is scheduled to reach Thailand tomorrow before heading to Sri Lanka on April 4. As per the itinerary, Modi will meet PM Oli before departing for Sri Lanka. Modi is expected to return to India on April 6, whereas PM Oli will return to Nepal on April 5 (Chaitra 23).

Court Extends Custody of 41 Pro-monarchy Protesters: Kathmandu District Court has extended the custody of 41 individuals, including Rastriya Prajatantra Party senior leaders Rabindra Mishra and Dhawal Shamsher Rana, arrested for their involvement in a violent pro-monarchy protest last Friday. The court granted a six-day extension for investigation.

The arrested individuals, including Mishra and Rana, are being investigated on charges of criminal disturbance, organized crime, and conspiracy against the state. The court had initially allowed a 5-day detention, with some facing an extended 7-day detention.

Seized Foreign Currency Traced to Narayan Poudel, Arrest Warrant Issued: The Rs 250 million worth of US dollars and euros seized from a truck in Jhor, Kathmandu, on March 18 has been linked to Narayan Poudel from Sindhupalchok. The Department of Revenue Investigation confirmed Poudel as the owner of the funds, while truck driver Kusang Lama, also from Sindhupalchok, was arrested. Lama initially claimed two unidentified individuals asked him to transport the money from Rasuwagadhi to Kerung. The investigation continues, with an arrest warrant now issued for Poudel, the confirmed owner of the foreign currency.

Home Ministry to Provide 1 Million Rupees Each to Families of Victims in Royalist Protest: Home Ministry to provide 1 million rupeesThe Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to provide 1 million rupees each to the families of those who lost their lives during the royalist violent protests. On Friday, one protester, Sabin Maharjan, was shot and killed by the police during the violent demonstration.

Similarly, journalist Suresh Rajak, who was covering the protest, also died due to a fire that broke out during the same incident. According to sources from the Ministry of Home Affairs, both families will receive 1 million rupees each. The Ministry has already recommended this amount to the Ministry of Finance for disbursement.

In addition, the Ministry has directed the Police Headquarters to ensure necessary security arrangements for the media. The office has also begun making the necessary preparations accordingly.

Teachers Rally in Kathmandu Demanding School Education Act: Teachers in Kathmandu staged a rally on Wednesday, demanding the issuance of the School Education Act. Organized under the leadership of the Teachers’ Federation, the rally started from various locations across the capital and culminated in a sit-in at Maitighar Mandala. Thousands of teachers from across the country gathered in Kathmandu to participate in this new phase of protest. More are expected to join tomorrow. To ensure a peaceful demonstration, 800 volunteers have been deployed.

Kathmandu Ranks Second in Global Air Pollution Today: Kathmandu Valley has dropped to second place globally for air pollution today, following its position as the most polluted city in the world yesterday. New Delhi, India, now holds the top spot for air pollution. Experts attribute Kathmandu’s high pollution levels to accumulated dust in the air, caused by a prolonged dry spell, as well as smoke from nearby forest fires.

According to the ‘Air Quality Index’ (AQI), Kathmandu is currently ranked second worldwide for air pollution. As of 7:25 am, Kathmandu’s AQI stands at 249, indicating unhealthy pollution levels. In comparison, Delhi’s AQI is 353, making it the most polluted city today. Lahore, Pakistan, holds the third position with an AQI of 178. Medical experts have warned that the air quality in Kathmandu is now hazardous to health. They advise people to stay indoors, particularly in the morning, to minimize exposure to harmful air.

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers an AQI below 35 to be safe for human health. AQI levels between 51 and 100 are considered moderate but require caution, while values between 101 and 150 can affect individuals with heart or respiratory conditions. Any AQI over 150 is categorized as unhealthy. An AQI of 201 to 300 is labeled very unhealthy, and values above 301 are considered dangerous, with AQI levels of 401 to 450 categorized as extremely hazardous.

Multiple Agreements Signed Between Nepal and Thailand: During Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s official visit to Thailand, multiple agreements were signed between Nepal and Thailand. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to promote tourism cooperation and exchange between the two countries. Additionally, the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and Thailand’s Thai Chamber of Commerce & Board of Trade reached an understanding to enhance mutual cooperation and boost trade and business activities.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Oli held a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Following their discussions, the two nations formalized various agreements.

PM Oli and Shinawatra Hold Talks on Cultural and Tourism Collaboration: Prime Minister (PM) KP Sharma Oli, who is on an official visit to Thailand, met with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Chief Advisor to PM Oli Bishnu Prasad Rimal, Economic Development Advisor Dr. Yub Raj Khatiwada, Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal, and Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Amrit Bahadur Rai, among others. Earlier, Prime Minister Shinawatra welcomed Prime Minister Oli at a government building in Thailand.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an agreement on collaboration in the cultural and tourism sectors is set to be signed following the meeting between the two Prime Ministers. Additionally, six memoranda of understanding (MOUs) will be exchanged between various non-governmental and business organizations from both countries.

The two leaders are also scheduled to hold a joint press conference. Prime Minister Oli will also participate in a luncheon hosted by his Thai counterpart and is scheduled to have a courtesy meeting with the King of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn, later today. PM Oli is expected to return to Nepal on April 5.

SEE Results Expected by June 21: The Secondary Education Examination (SEE) for this academic year has been completed, according to the National Examination Board (NEB) at the Office of the Controller of Examinations in Sanothimi. The nationwide exam, which began on March 20, was held at 2,079 centers across Nepal. A total of 514,071 students participated in the SEE, with the highest number of 39,600 students in Kathmandu and the lowest of 43 in Manang.

Additionally, 29 students took the exam at a center in Japan, while students from Central Jail, Dailekh prisons, and a juvenile correctional facility in Bhaktapur also participated. Examination Controller Nandalal Poudel confirmed that this year’s SEE was conducted peacefully and with integrity. He also mentioned that some invigilators were dismissed for misconduct to ensure fairness. The results of the SEE are expected to be released by June 21. To pass, students must achieve at least 35 marks in each subject. Last year, only 48 percent of students passed, but the board is aiming for a pass rate of 70 percent this year.

Incumbent Govt. Committed to Press Freedom, Freedom of Expression, Says PM Oli: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the incumbent government is fully committed to press freedom and freedom of expression. In a message of best wishes today on the occasion of 75th anniversary of Public Service Broadcasting, Radio Nepal, Prime Minister Oli shared that media should play responsible role to contribute in nationalism, democracy, good governance and development. He expressed the belief Radio Nepal’s contribution is expected to be important in achieving the government’s objective of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’, Prime Minister Oli called on Radio Nepal to support the campaign for development and prosperity in the future. “Radio Nepal has great contribution in political awakening of Nepal.

A time has come where Radio Nepal has to come to creatively inform general people for the development of the country. Now our information and message should be focused in the journey of economic prosperity taking the development pace of the country ahead through the medium of new technology along with employment creation”, reads the message.

Parliamentary Committee Seeks Government’s Response on March 28 Incident: The State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives has decided to summon the Home Minister for a response regarding the March 28 incident. During a meeting held at Singha Durbar on Wednesday, committee members demanded clarification from the government on the royalist protest incident.

As a result, the committee has scheduled a session on April 4 (Friday) to question the Home Minister. Lawmakers emphasized the need for the government to provide a clear explanation of the events that took place on March 28. Some also called for a judicial investigation into the incident. Nepali Congress MP BishwaPrakash Sharma urged the government to form a judicial probe committee to investigate the incident at Tinkune. He insisted that the government’s stance on the matter should be presented to the committee.

Similarly, Maoist Center Chief Whip Hita Raj Pandey criticized the government’s handling of the situation, stating that the Home Minister must provide answers. He questioned the police’s failure to apprehend Durga Prasai despite surrounding him and expressed skepticism over the government’s claims of swift action.

Journalist Suresh Rajak’s Autopsy Confirms Death by Burning: Suresh Rajak, the journalist associated with Avenues TV, who tragically lost his life in a fire during the royalist demonstration in Thinkune, Kathmandu, on 15th Chaitra, has undergone a post-mortem.

According to doctors at the forensic department of the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Rajak’s cause of death has been confirmed as due to burns. The doctors confirmed that no bullet wounds were found on his body. An X-ray was conducted on the body yesterday evening, and the post-mortem took place on Wednesday after the report.

The delay in performing the post-mortem had been caused by reports circulating on social media and news outlets claiming Rajak had been shot. As per the doctor’s procedure, they had refused to carry out the post-mortem until the X-ray was done.The family is now in the process of receiving Rajak’s body, with plans to take it home soon, as confirmed by the doctor.

Nepal Army Deploys Medical Team to Myanmar for Earthquake Relief: Following the recent devastating earthquake in Myanmar that caused significant loss of life and property, the Nepal Army has dispatched a relief team on Wednesday. As per the decision of the Nepal government, a medical relief team led by Lieutenant Colonel Ram Chandra Shrestha has been sent to assist in the affected areas.

According to the Directorate of Public Relations and Information, a total of 22 personnel—including 12 medical professionals, four logistics support staff, and six crew members—departed for Myanmar on a Nepal Army aircraft. The team is equipped with essential medicines and medical equipment and includes surgeons, orthopedic specialists, general physicians, nurses, and paramedics. The Nepal Army has stated that the team will provide medical assistance to the injured earthquake victims in Myanmar for approximately a week.

Hotline Service Receives Over 1,900 Complaints in One Month: The hotline service (1151) launched by the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation to resolve electricity related problems has become effective. The hotline service is receiving a large number of complaints. It was launched in order to resolve problems like dillydallying in work, power cut without notice, irregular meter reading as well as other unnecessary hassles. Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Dipak Khadka, directed to address the people’s complaints filed at the hotline as soon as possible. Ram Krishna Poudel, who is working at hotline service, shared that they have been resolving the problems informing the chief of the concerned offices and distribution centres soon after receiving the complaints.

Total 1,902 complaints were registered at the hotline service from February 13-March 13 while more than 1,000 complaints have already been registered till March 31, he added. Most of the complaints received at hotline service are related with disruption in power supply and low voltage. The service recipients also use Facebook and viber to file complaints and additional human resources have been deputed to address the complaints.

Prime Minister Oli: Nepal-Thailand Relations Reached New Heights: During his official visit to Thailand, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stated that his visit had taken Nepal-Thailand relations to new heights. Speaking at a joint press conference with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok, Prime Minister Oli emphasized that the visit would enhance cooperation between the two countries in sectors such as culture, tourism, education, and energy.

Oli mentioned that discussions between the two leaders focused on further expanding diplomatic ties, which have existed for 65 years, as well as strengthening people-to-people connections. He also expressed confidence that Thailand’s investments in Nepal’s tourism sector, particularly in hotel businesses and air services, would receive priority in the future.

NEPSE Rises by 23.86 Points, Reaches 2,700.04 Points: Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) gained 23.86 points on Wednesday, closing at 2,700.04 points. The market opened at 2,676.17 points, initially dipping to 2,670.58 points but later climbing to 2,712.13 points. The index declined by 12 points in the remaining trading period. Manufacturing and non-life insurance were the only losing sectors, with drops of 106.62 and 33.06 points, respectively. Trading rose by 420.89 points, and the sensitive index gained 1.08 points. CEDB Holdings Limited saw the highest turnover, while Central Finance Co Ltd emerged as the biggest gainer.

Over 121,000 Tourists Visit Nepal in March by Air: Nepal welcomed 121,800 foreign tourists in March, 2025. Such number of tourists entered Nepal by air, according to the Nepal Tourism Board. A total of 298,000 tourists visited Nepal in the first three months of 2025, added NTB. Total 79,900 tourists entered Nepal in January, 96,800 in February. Nepal welcomed the highest number of tourists from India in March which is 21,412. Similarly, 11,443 tourists entered Nepal from China and 11,092 from USA, 8,886 from Sri Lanka, 5,995 from London as well as 35,287 from South Asia in March.

Russian Ambassador Meets Energy Minister Khadka to Discuss Bilateral Cooperation: Russian Ambassador to Nepal, Aleksei Novikov, paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Deepak Khadka, at the ministry today. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and mutual interests, particularly in Nepal’s energy sector. Minister Khadka expressed gratitude to the Russian government for its contribution to Nepal’s human resource development. He recalled the historical Panauti Hydropower Project, which was constructed with financial assistance from the former Soviet Union.

Highlighting Nepal’s goal of generating 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035, Minister Khadka emphasized the need for Russian support in achieving this target. He also invited Russian companies to invest in Nepal’s transmission lines, energy storage, smart grids, and green energy projects. Ambassador Novikov expressed Russia’s keen interest in investing in Nepal’s energy and hydropower sector. He also extended an invitation to Minister Khadka to participate in major international forums in Russia, including the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in June, the Neva International Ecological Congress in May, and the Russian Energy Week in October.

Nepal Rastra Bank to Withdraw Additional NPR 30 Billion Liquidity: Nepal Rastra Bank is set to withdraw an additional NPR 30 billion from the banking system on Wednesday. The central bank will use its deposit collection tool for this withdrawal, with the auction scheduled for 3 PM today. As excess liquidity accumulates in the banking system, the central bank has been consistently withdrawing funds using this mechanism. Banks and financial institutions wishing to participate in the deposit collection auction can bid with amounts ranging from a minimum of NPR 50 million to a maximum of NPR 500 million, depending on the remaining available amount.

According to the central bank, the deposit collection auction can be conducted with a fixed or variable interest rate, allowing for multiple bids. Only banks and financial institutions in categories ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’ will be eligible to participate. The settlement of the deposit collection auction, including principal and interest payments, will be made on the 10th of Baisakh, as per the central bank’s announcement.

MoUs of 10 HICDPs signed: Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) have been signed for undertaking 10 High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs) in Nepal under the grant assistance of Government of India  in Education, Health,  and Culture Sectors at a total cost of Rs 625 million. The Embassy of India, Kathmandu and the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, Government of Nepal and Project Implementing Agencies of Government of Nepal signed the MoUs on Tuesday, the Embassy of India, Kathmandu stated in a press release. These HICDPs shall be implemented through Local authorities of Government of Nepal i.e. Metropolitan City, Sub-Metropolitan City, Municipalities and Rural Municipalities, according to the Embassy of India.

The implementation of these projects will help provide better educational, healthcare and cultural facilities to the people of Nepal. Since 2003, India has taken up over 573 HICDPs in Nepal, including the 10 projects whose MoUs have been signed today, and has completed 495 projects in the areas of education, health, road and bridges, river training, drinking water, electrification,  irrigation, culture, social welfare and creation of other public utilities across all 7 provinces of Nepal at the grassroot level. The remaining projects are ongoing at different stages.

Fire Breaks Out at Nepal Army Barracks in Bhimphedi, Makwanpur: A fire broke out at the Nepal Army barracks located inside the multi-purpose plastic factory premises in Bhimphedi, Makwanpur on Wednesday morning, destroying the residential quarters of army personnel. The fire was caused by an electrical short circuit, completely damaging around 10 rooms in the barracks. The fire started around 7:30 AM, and due to the wooden and mud structures, controlling the flames became challenging. A one-third portion of the building where the army personnel resided has been completely destroyed. Since it was a Rana-era mud and wooden structure, even using fire engines made it difficult to contain the fire. There were no human casualties, and essential items inside the barracks were safely removed.

German Homes to Host New Year’s Eve Concert with Ram Krishna Dhakal: German Homes in Gaththaghar, Bhaktapur, will host a New Year’s Eve 2082 celebration featuring singer Ram Krishna Dhakal. The event on Chaitra 31 (6 PM – Midnight) will be hosted by Reema Bishwokarma and include comedy, salsa, and a DJ session. Around 1,500-2,000 attendees are expected, with one lucky winner receiving a Thailand trip. Tickets will be available from Chaitra 22 via Khalti and at the venue. The event marks a grand farewell to 2081.

Comedy Duo Madan Krishna and Hari Bansha Meet President Paudel: Veteran comedians Madan Krishna Shrestha and Hari Bansha Acharya, known as the “MaHa” duo, met with President Ram Chandra Paudel to discuss strengthening Nepal’s federal democratic republic. They emphasized good governance, efficient service delivery, and eliminating corruption. The duo conveyed public dissatisfaction with political leadership while reaffirming faith in democracy. Reminding the President of his guardian role, they urged him to push leaders toward accountability. They stressed the need for reforms without siding with any political faction.

German Homes to Host New Year’s Eve Concert with Ram Krishna Dhakal: German Homes in Gaththaghar, Bhaktapur, will host a New Year’s Eve 2082 celebration featuring singer Ram Krishna Dhakal. The event on Chaitra 31 (6 PM – Midnight) will be hosted by Reema Bishwokarma and include comedy, salsa, and a DJ session. Around 1,500-2,000 attendees are expected, with one lucky winner receiving a Thailand trip. Tickets will be available from Chaitra 22 via Khalti and at the venue. The event marks a grand farewell to 2081.

Actor Rajesh Hamal Emphasizes Role Suitability Over Age in Films: Veteran actor Rajesh Hamal has stated that an artist’s age should not be a concern, but rather the suitability of the character they portray. Speaking at the poster launch and release date announcement event for the movie Narasimha Avatar, Hamal emphasized that as long as an artist fits the role, age is irrelevant. “Instead of discussing how old I am or the age gap between me and my co-actors, the focus should be on how we appear in the role,” Hamal remarked. “On screen, it is the performance that matters, not the age of the actor. There is no set age limit for actors in our industry, and many have remained active in cinema for decades, including myself.”

Hamal explained that he returned to films after eight years because the character and storyline suited him. He also praised the dedication of young actors in the film. Actress Niti Shah, who plays his on-screen partner, expressed confidence that the film would elevate her acting career. Directed by Diwakar Bhattarai, Narasimha Avatar is set to release on Jestha 9, 2082 (May 23, 2025). The film stars Rajesh Hamal, Niti Shah, Saroj Khanal, Nir Shah, Raj Katuwal, Sanisha Bhattarai, Usha Khadgi, Arjun Shrestha, and Prashant Tamrakar.

Advance Ticket Sales Open for Basant Ahead of Friday Release: The much-awaited film Basant has opened advance ticket bookings, receiving high screen allocations in both multiplexes and single screens. QFX Cinemas, Nepal’s largest multiplex chain, has allotted 71 shows nationwide, including 33 in Kathmandu. Other major chains like INI Cinemas, One Cinemas, FQube, Big Movies, and BSR Cinemas have also given multiple shows. Directed by Prakash Saput, Basant tells the struggles of a Dalit boy aspiring to be a writer. The film has received a universal certification from the censor board.

Lalitpur City Secures First NSL Win with Cantillana’s Brace: Defending champions Lalitpur City claimed their first win in the Nepal Super League (NSL), defeating Pokhara Thunders 3-2. Jonathan Cantillana scored twice, while Imoh Ezekiel added one. Samir Tamang and Joy Aidu scored for Pokhara. Lalitpur now leads the table with four points, while Pokhara remains winless. The match saw referee disputes and security intervention after Pokhara’s officials protested a disallowed goal. Cantillana, with three goals, now leads the NSL top scorers list.

Birgunj United Claims Second Win in ‘B’ Division League: Birgunj United secured their second victory in the Shahid Smarak ‘B’ Division League, defeating Bansbari Club 2-1 at ANFA Complex, Satdobato. With this win, Birgunj climbs to third place with eight points from four matches, while Bansbari remains at six points after their second loss. Vivek Chaudhary and Amar Dangol scored for Birgunj, while Sandeep Limbu netted for Bansbari. Despite a late 90th-minute goal from Sandeep, Bansbari couldn’t complete a comeback.

Planning Boys United Maintains Unbeaten Run in ‘B’ Division League: Planning Boys United continued their unbeaten streak in the Shahid Smarak ‘B’ Division League with a 2-1 victory over Boys Union Club at the ANFA Complex, Satdobato. This marks Planning’s fourth consecutive win, reclaiming the top spot with 12 points. Boys Union, with just three points, sits in ninth place. Pratab Singh Rai and Rujan Neupane scored for Planning, while Sanjiv Lama netted for Boys Union. Rujan’s 54th-minute goal secured the win.

Myanmar’s Junta Rejects Quake Ceasefire, Death Toll Hits 2,719: Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, head of Myanmar’s ruling junta, has categorically rejected ceasefire proposals from ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) intended to facilitate desperately needed earthquake relief. Instead, he has declared a continuation of military operations, a move that directly undermines humanitarian efforts as the earthquake’s death toll escalates to 2,719 with 400 still missing and over 4,000 injured.

Despite a temporary halt in EAO attacks following the earthquake, Min Aung Hlaing accused these groups of exploiting the pause to regroup and conduct military training. “Some ethnic armed groups may not be actively engaging in battles right now, but they are gathering and training in preparation for attacks. Since this is a form of aggression, the military will continue necessary defense operations,” he said during a fundraising event in Naypyidaw on Tuesday.

U.S. Launches 1st Human Spaceflight Mission to Earth’s Polar Regions: The United States on Monday launched the world’s first human spaceflight mission over the Earth’s polar regions.A SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying a four-member crew lifted off aboard a Falcon 9 rocket at about 9:46 p.m. Eastern Time (0146 GMT Tuesday) from the Kennedy Space Center of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in the state of Florida.

Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage landed on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. The crew of the “Fram2” mission includes Mission Commander Chun Wang, Vehicle Commander Jannicke Mikkelsen, Mission Pilot Rabea Rogge, and Mission Specialist and Medical Officer Eric Philips. Throughout the three-to-five-day mission, the crew plans to observe Earth’s polar wilderness through Dragon’s cupola, leveraging insights from space physicists and citizen scientists to study unusual light emissions resembling auroras, according to the mission website. The crew will conduct 22 experiments aimed at advancing human health and performance in space, particularly for future long-duration missions. Key highlights include capturing the first human X-ray images in space, studying blood flow restriction exercises to preserve muscle and bone mass, and growing mushrooms in microgravity as a potential space crop.

Additional studies will explore sleep and stress patterns using wearable tech, continuous glucose monitoring, women’s hormonal health, motion sickness, and brain imaging immediately after landing using a portable magnetic resonance imaging device.

Israeli Airstrikes on Khan Younis in Southern Gaza Kill At Least 17 People: Israeli airstrikes on the southern city of Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip have killed 17 people, hospital officials say. The bodies of 12 people killed in an overnight airstrike were brought to Nasser Hospital, officials said Wednesday, and the victims included five women, one of them pregnant, and two children. Three men from the same family were killed, as were the owners of the house that was bombed, officials said.

World Economies Brace for Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ Tariffs: The White House confirmed on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump will impose new tariffs on Wednesday but did not disclose specific details regarding their scale and scope. The move has sparked concerns among businesses, consumers, and investors over a potential escalation of the global trade war. For weeks, Trump has referred to April 2 as “Liberation Day,” promising major tariff announcements that could disrupt international trade. A formal declaration is set for 4 PM Eastern Time (8 PM GMT) in the White House Rose Garden.

According to White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, reciprocal tariffs on nations that levy duties on US goods will take effect immediately following Trump’s announcement, while a 25 percent tariff on auto imports is scheduled to be enforced on April 3. The Republican president has previously imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and has increased levies on all Chinese goods. However, he has also frequently threatened additional tariffs, only to delay or withdraw them later.