Trump’s Executive Order Hits Global Trade
US President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new trade tariffs on imports from 69 countries, signaling one of the most aggressive trade measures in recent history. The tariffs, part of a “reciprocal trade” initiative, will range between 10% and 41%, with some countries facing additional punitive levies.
The order was signed late Thursday night, just before the original deadline expired, and will take effect from August 7, 2025. The move follows Trump’s insistence on eliminating what he calls “unfair trade practices” and reducing the US trade deficit.
Canada and Brazil Hit the Hardest
- Canada: Tariff rate increased from 25% to 35%, effective immediately from August 1.
- Brazil: Initially set at 10%, Brazil now faces an additional 40% punitive tariff, bringing the total to 50%, linked to legal action against former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Other major economies, including India, Taiwan, Japan, and the EU, will also face tariffs in the range of 12% to 30%.
Negotiations with Mexico Extended
Trump has granted Mexico a 90-day extension for tariff negotiations, avoiding immediate duties on Mexican imports.
✅ Full Table of Trump’s Tariffs by Country
| Country/Region | Previous Tariff | New Tariff | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 25% | 35% | Aug 1, 2025 |
| Brazil | 10% | 50% (incl. 40% punitive) | Aug 1, 2025 |
| India | 0-5% | 20% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Taiwan | 5% | 18% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Japan | 8% | 22% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| South Korea | 7% | 19% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| European Union (EU) | 6-8% | 15% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| UK | 5% | 14% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| China | 15% | 30% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Australia | 5% | 12% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Russia | 10% | 28% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Saudi Arabia | 5% | 15% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Vietnam | 7% | 17% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Singapore | 4% | 12% | Aug 7, 2025 |
| Taiwan | 5% | 18% | Aug 7, 2025 |
(Full list of 69 countries available in downloadable PDF on the White House website.)
Why It Matters
Experts warn this move could:
✔ Increase cost of imported goods for US consumers.
✔ Trigger retaliatory tariffs from affected countries.
✔ Disrupt global supply chains, particularly in tech, auto, and agriculture sectors.
Economist Sarah Williams said:
“This is the biggest single tariff action in decades. It will reshape global trade flows and could spark retaliatory actions.”
Timeline
July 31: Executive order signed.
Aug 1: Canada and Brazil new tariffs start.
Aug 7: Tariffs on remaining countries come into effect.
