WASHINGTON, D.C. – August 8, 2025 – President Donald Trump has implemented a new round of tariffs, raising the average U.S. import duty to its highest level in a century. The tariffs, which took effect on Thursday, are part of the administration’s policy to reduce the trade deficit, boost domestic manufacturing, and leverage pressure on countries trading with Russia.
The new duties range from 10% to 50% and impact a broad spectrum of goods, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, vehicles, and raw materials such as steel and aluminum.
The policy has disproportionately affected several countries, with Brazil, Switzerland, Canada, and India facing some of the most significant rate increases. India, in particular, was hit with an additional 25% tariff for its continued oil trade with Russia, bringing its total rate to 50%.
While key allies like the European Union, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom have successfully negotiated deals to receive lower rates, other nations are still attempting to mitigate the impact. Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter’s recent visit to Washington was unsuccessful, and talks with South Africa are ongoing. In response, Brazil’s President Lula has hinted at a joint response from the BRICS nations, while Indian Prime Minister Modi has stood firm, refusing to make concessions due to domestic interests.
While the administration’s trade negotiator, Jamieson Greer, has defended the move as a display of “bold leadership,” critics warn that the tariffs could lead to supply chain disruptions, higher inflation, and retaliatory measures from affected trading partners, raising global economic tensions.
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