Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose tariffs on remote Antarctic islands—where only penguins live and there are no human inhabitants—has left people scratching their heads.
These islands, like the Heard and McDonald Islands, part of Australia’s territory, are located far from any regular trade routes and are home to only wildlife like seals and birds.
Despite their lack of economic activity, they found themselves targeted by the Trump administration’s tariffs, sparking disbelief and jokes on social media.
Australian officials, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, have expressed bewilderment, questioning the logic behind taxing areas with no significant exports.
The move has become a source of global amusement, with internet users having a field day making memes about the penguins getting caught up in international trade policies.