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DAVOS, Switzerland – Former President Donald Trump sharply criticized current economic policies and reiterated his “America First” platform during a series of appearances at the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 14, 2026. His remarks, delivered during a panel discussion and a subsequent press conference, focused heavily on trade imbalances and national sovereignty.
Trump specifically targeted the Biden governance’s trade agreements, claiming they have led to a $832 billion trade deficit in 2025, according to data released by the U.S. census Bureau on February 7, 2026. He pledged to implement tariffs of up to 60% on goods from countries he accused of unfair trade practices, specifically naming China and Germany.
“We will no longer allow our country to be taken advantage of,” Trump stated during the press conference. “We will put American workers and American businesses first.”
The former president also addressed concerns about globalism, arguing that international organizations undermine national sovereignty. He referenced a recent report by the Heritage Foundation, published on January 8, 2026, which criticized the World Health Organization’s handling of pandemic preparedness.
Reactions to Trump’s appearance were mixed. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen,speaking shortly after Trump’s panel discussion,called his proposals “protectionist” and warned they could trigger a global recession. She cited a projection from the International Monetary Fund, released on January 10, 2026, estimating a 1.5% contraction in global GDP if significant trade barriers are erected.
Trump’s visit to Davos marks a significant shift in his relationship with the forum, which he previously criticized as an elitist gathering. he is scheduled to meet with several world leaders throughout the week,including the Prime Minister of India,Narendra Modi,and the President of Brazil,Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
The 2026 World Economic Forum is focused on themes of economic resilience, technological innovation, and climate change. Approximately 2,800 leaders from buisness, government, and civil society are attending the event, which concludes on January 16, 2026.