Trump Hits Dozens of Nations With Tariffs, Hikes Canada’s to 35%
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, imposing a wide range of “reciprocal tariffs” from 10% to 41% on more than 70 countries, marking a significant escalation of his global trade offensive. The order immediately raises tariffs on Canadian imports from 25% to 35%, while Indian goods will now face a 25% duty.
The sweeping move is based on Trump’s earlier declaration of a national emergency over persistent trade deficits, which the administration deems “an unusual and extraordinary threat” to national security. The White House justified the new rates by citing “continued lack of reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships” and the failure of some nations to engage in negotiations to resolve these imbalances.
The highest tariff, 41%, has been applied to Syria, with other notable rates including 39% for Switzerland, 30% for South Africa, and 20% for Vietnam and Taiwan. Key US allies like Japan and the UK will face tariffs of 15% and 10%, respectively. The administration singled out Canada for the immediate 10-point hike, citing its alleged failure to address the “illicit drug crisis” and its “retaliation against the United States” on the issue.
While the new 35% tariff on Canada took effect just hours after the order was signed on August 1, the duties for the other 70-plus countries will be enforced seven days from the signing. An exemption has been provided for goods already loaded onto ships by August 7 that reach the US by October 5.
This action complicates ongoing and potential trade negotiations worldwide. A senior US official noted that resolving differences with India would not be quick, pointing to New Delhi’s historically “closed market,” its membership in BRICS, and its energy ties with Russia as significant hurdles. The 25% tariff on India is expected to jeopardize months of difficult negotiations.
Meanwhile, talks with other major trading partners are at critical stages. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that a trade deal with China is not yet finalized and requires President Trump’s approval, with Beijing facing an August 12 deadline to reach a lasting agreement.
