As of August 7, Trump’s global tariff policy officially took effect, impacting more than 90 countries worldwide. President Donald Trump confirmed the enforcement through a social media post, claiming that billions of dollars are flowing into America.
His administration introduced sweeping tariffs to pressure foreign nations and restore jobs and manufacturing within US borders. Some countries like Laos and Myanmar now face massive 40% import taxes, one of the steepest under Trump’s latest directive.
India also faced backlash from Trump, who warned of raising tariffs to 50% unless Delhi stops importing oil from Russia. The administration additionally threatened 100% tariffs on foreign-made semiconductors, urging firms to expand domestic production.
According to Asian officials, major chipmakers with US investments, including TSMC and Samsung, appear exempt from this move. Trump has said these tariffs aim to correct what he sees as an unfair global trading system harming American workers.
Critics warn that the global tariff policy could destabilize trade relations, strain economies, and invite retaliatory measures from key allies. The European Union agreed to a 15% tariff framework, while Switzerland faces 39% tariffs—scheduled emergency talks for Thursday.
President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan called their 20% tariff “temporary,” noting that a discussion with Washington remains underway. Canada’s tariff increased to 35%, justified by Trump’s claim that Ottawa failed to curb drug smuggling across the US border.
Still, most Canadian goods remain protected under the USMCA free trade agreement with the US and Mexico. Meanwhile, Trump paused higher tariffs on Mexico and extended China negotiations with an approaching August 12 deadline.
Trump also linked some tariffs to diplomatic pressure, threatening secondary sanctions on Russia’s partners if peace talks fail. India slammed the tariff threats unjustified, signaling rising friction with Washington amid ongoing energy partnerships with Moscow.
