Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new wave of trade tariffs targeting several additional countries, intensifying his campaign to reshape America’s global trade relationships. The announcement, made on Wednesday, included significant tariff rates ranging from 20% to 30% on exports from Sri Lanka, Algeria, Iraq, Libya, Brunei, Moldova, and the Philippines.
These new measures are set to take effect on August 1, 2025, with no indication of delays or exemptions.
This latest batch builds upon earlier tariff announcements made in June, which targeted countries such as Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Myanmar with rates as high as 40%.
The rationale, according to Trump’s communications, centers on addressing trade imbalances, penalizing countries for what he calls “unfair practices,” and ensuring “reciprocal treatment” for American exports.
In a particularly bold move, Brazil has been hit with a 50% tariff rate—one of the highest so far—linked not just to trade issues but also to political tensions following alleged bias against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Other sectors likely to be affected by the overall tariff policy include steel, aluminum, automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
The announcement has sparked concern among global trading partners, with many now seeking urgent dialogue with U.S. representatives in hopes of negotiating relief. Industry leaders and economists warn the tariffs could lead to increased costs, disrupted supply chains, and retaliatory trade measures, potentially escalating global trade tensions ahead of the planned enforcement date.
