IMF chief: US tariffs risk global economy

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva has identified new US tariffs as a significant risk to the global economy's outlook, especially during a period of sluggish growth.

Georgieva's statement marks the IMF's initial response following President Donald Trump's latest round of worldwide tariffs, which have intensified a trade war that economists fear could lead to global recession and increased inflation.

The IMF chief emphasized the importance of avoiding actions that could further damage the global economy.

She urged the United States and its trading partners to engage in constructive dialogue to de-escalate trade tensions and reduce economic uncertainty.

The IMF had previously projected global growth at 3.3 percent for the current year, a rate lower than the average growth seen in the first two decades of the 21st century.

The upcoming Spring Meetings in Washington will feature discussions on the unprecedented US trade tariff actions, with the IMF set to release its updated global economic outlook prior to the event.