By M10News International Desk | Monday 8 July 2025
Washington, D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced sweeping trade tariffs on at least seven countries, signalling a renewed escalation in his administration’s aggressive economic stance just weeks after pausing talks with major trading partners.
In a series of statements released via his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump revealed that 25% tariffs would be applied to all goods from Japan and South Korea, effective 1 August.
He cited “persistent trade imbalances” in letters sent to the two nations, marking the official revival of the so-called “Liberation Day” tariff strategy.
Additional measures quickly followed. Malaysia and Kazakhstan were added to the list, while South Africa will now face a 30% blanket duty. Laos and Myanmar received the steepest penalties, with 40% tariffs on all goods exported to the United States.
“We invite you to participate in the extraordinary economy of the United States, the Number One Market in the World, by far,” read Trump’s letter to Japan and South Korea, ending with the phrase: “Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
The tariff letters, scheduled to reach more countries in the coming days, come ahead of the formal implementation of the duties on 1 August. The European Union, America’s largest trading partner, is also expected to be contacted, raising concerns across the bloc about a new wave of protectionism.
Additional Tariff Threats and BRICS Warning
Mr Trump has also signalled a potential 10% tariff on any country “aligning itself with the anti-American policies” of BRICS nations—which include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as newer members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.
While the UK appears to be safe from this wave of tariff hikes, Trump’s messaging leaves room for future changes. London was the first to secure a post-2025 agreement in May, which included a truce on certain automotive and aerospace products.
However, ambiguity remains over whether 25% tariffs on British steel and aluminium will be lifted—or raised to 50%, as applied to other partners.
A Downing Street spokesperson responded Monday:
“Our work with the US continues to get this deal implemented as soon as possible. The US agreed to remove tariffs on these products as part of our agreement on 8 May. Discussions are ongoing.”
Financial Fallout and Market Reaction
In the wake of Trump’s announcements, the U.S. dollar strengthened while domestic equity markets faltered. The S&P 500 dropped 1% following publication of the letters.
Though markets in Japan and South Korea were closed on Monday, U.S.-traded shares of South Korean giants SK Telecom and LG Display slid sharply—by 7.5% and 5.8%, respectively.
Uncertainty Looms
The decision comes after a 90-day negotiation pause initiated in April, which was set to expire on 9 July. The Trump administration claims some countries had offered concessions in anticipation of that deadline, but sources suggest final deals remain elusive.
Although China and Vietnam have secured partial relief through prior negotiations, the reintroduction of these tariffs is likely to disrupt global supply chains and place further pressure on diplomatic ties.
As of now, the administration has not ruled out further additions to the list, nor clarified if exemptions could apply to strategic industries.
Editing by M10News International Desk | Contact: info@m10news.com
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