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From Canada to Asia: Trump’s Global Tariff Push Intensifies
Trump has warned over 20 countries including Canada, Brazil, and key Asian nations—to accept new trade deals or face steep tariffs of up to 50% starting August 1.

The Trump administration has restarted its aggressive trade approach. This month, it sent official letters and social media posts to more than 20 countries. These notices warned that if nations don’t agree to new trade deals by August 1, the U.S. will increase tariffs—some up to 50 percent.

President Trump had launched a similar plan in April under the name “reciprocal tariffs.” However, the plan was paused just before implementation. Now, a revised executive order extends the deadline to August 1, as the administration failed to secure 90 trade deals in 90 days.

More Countries Targeted with Mixed Tariff Changes

This time, many earlier rates have changed. Some increased, while others dropped. Also, several new countries joined the list. Trump’s message stays the same: sign a deal or pay a penalty. Nations across Asia, Eastern Europe, West Asia, Latin America, and even Canada are now in the spotlight.

Brazil Faces 50% Tariff Amid Political Tensions

Brazil had only faced a 10 percent tariff since April. Now, it must deal with a sharp rise to 50 percent. Trump’s decision came amid frustration over legal actions against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. In response, President Lula da Silva said, “Brazil will apply its economic reciprocity law,” adding that the U.S. has had a $410 billion trade surplus with Brazil over 15 years.

Canada Joins List with 35% Tariff

Canada wasn’t part of the original April list. But now, Trump has imposed a 35 percent tariff on some Canadian imports. He linked this move to concerns about fentanyl crossing the border. However, many Canadian exports remain protected under trade agreements.

Asia Sees Mixed Tariff Adjustments

Several Asian nations, especially those exporting electronics and garments, received updated rates:

  • Japan: Raised to 25% from 24%. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said it was “extremely regrettable.”

  • South Korea: Still at 25%. Talks will continue.

  • Myanmar: Lowered to 40% from 44%.

  • Laos: Dropped to 40% from 48%.

  • Cambodia: Reduced to 36% from 49%. Negotiators asked industries to stay calm.

  • Thailand: Unchanged at 36%. A proposal was submitted for greater U.S. access.

  • Bangladesh: Slight cut to 35%. Officials fear export costs may rise.

  • Philippines: Increased to 20% from 17%. No response yet.

  • Malaysia: Rose to 25%. A cabinet meeting is planned.

  • Indonesia: Stays at 32%.

  • Sri Lanka: Lowered to 30% from 44%.

  • Kazakhstan: Down to 25% from 27%.

  • Brunei: Slight rise to 25% from 24%.

  • Iraq: Cut to 30% from 39%.

Africa Faces Modest Changes

  • Libya: Slight drop to 30%.

  • Algeria: Holds steady at 30%.

  • Tunisia: Lowered to 25%.

  • South Africa: Stays at 30%. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office said the country seeks dialogue and submitted a trade proposal in May.

Eastern Europe Also Affected

  • Serbia: Dropped to 35%.

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina: Cut to 30%. Exports include military goods.

  • Moldova: Down to 25%. Exports beverages and plastics.

Complete List of Countries and Tariffs (So Far):

  • Brazil (50%)

  • Canada (35%)

  • Japan (25%)

  • South Korea (25%)

  • Thailand (36%)

  • Malaysia (25%)

  • Indonesia (32%)

  • South Africa (30%)

  • Philippines (20%)

  • Cambodia (36%)

  • Bangladesh (35%)

  • Serbia (35%)

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina (30%)

  • Kazakhstan (25%)

  • Laos (40%)

  • Myanmar (40%)

  • Tunisia (25%)

  • Iraq (30%)

  • Libya (30%)

  • Brunei (25%)

  • Sri Lanka (30%)

  • Moldova (25%)

Data from the Observatory of Economic Complexity shows some of these nations make up only a small portion of U.S. imports—except for Canada (12.6%), Japan (4.5%), and South Korea (4%).

EU May Be Next

So far, the European Union hasn’t received a formal notice. But Trump said, “probably two days off” when asked about sending a tariff letter to the EU. EU officials said they hope to reach a deal soon. They expect a 10 percent baseline tariff but want exemptions for products like cosmetics, aerospace, and alcohol.

Industry-Specific Tariffs Also Planned

Trump announced that copper imports will face a 50 percent tariff. Pharmaceutical imports could face up to 200 percent. Companies will get time to shift production locations.

These moves are part of a larger effort already covering steel, cars, and aluminum. Lawsuits challenging this policy continue in U.S. courts. Business groups worry the new tariffs will increase costs for American consumers and disrupt supply chains.

Trump also warned countries not to retaliate. He said if nations impose counter-tariffs or try to bypass rules, the U.S. will raise duties even further.