US president Donald Trump was forced to clarify statements he made in an address to the nation that appeared to place a ban on goods coming into the country from Europe.

Mr Trump was announcing special measures due to the coronavirus outbreak, which included stopping all US-bound passenger flights from Europe with the exception of those from the UK.

Unexpectedly, he went on to add: "These prohibitions will not only apply to the tremendous amount of trade and cargo, but various other things as we get approval. Anything coming from Europe to the United States is what we are discussing."

The announcement sparked widespread international confusion and anxiety, with many businesses fearing they might lose their livelihoods and a significant proportion of their market.

However, the White House and later Mr Trump himself took to Twitter to clarify the erroneous remarks and ensure traders were aware it will in fact be business as usual.

"Trade will in no way be affected by the 30-day restriction on travel from Europe. The restriction stops people, not goods," the president wrote.

The news will undoubtedly come as a relief for European firms that trade with the US. According to eurostat, the North American nation was the largest partner for EU exports of goods in 2019, as well as the second-largest partner for EU imports.