Breaking: Trump Slaps Massive Tariffs on 14 Countries, Warns of Trade War Escalation

Washington, D.C(The Uttam Hindu): U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of new tariffs on 14 countries, effective from August 1. He declared that America will no longer tolerate unfair trade practices and warned that nations refusing to negotiate fair deals will face strict penalties. While trade agreements have already been finalized with China and the United Kingdom, the other countries have been officially notified via letters shared on his social media platform, Truth Social.

The countries targeted include Thailand, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Serbia, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia, South Africa, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Japan, South Korea, and Tunisia. Tariff rates will vary: Thailand and Cambodia will face 36%, Bangladesh and Serbia 35%, Myanmar and Laos 40%, Indonesia 32%, South Africa and Bosnia 30%, and Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Japan, and South Korea 25%.

Trump warned that if any of these nations raise tariffs on American products in response, the U.S. will further increase the imposed rates. However, he also indicated that tariff rates could be reduced if the countries revise their trade policies in line with U.S. expectations.

Originally, these tariffs were set to begin on July 9, but the deadline has been extended to August 1 to allow room for negotiation. This comes after an earlier April announcement, when Trump proposed reciprocal tariffs up to 50%, triggering significant volatility in stock and bond markets. The extension offers countries more time to engage in talks and avoid economic fallout.

Trump also expressed confidence about a potential trade agreement with India, stating that the deal is very close. Though he did not provide further details, the remark suggests that India may avoid these new tariffs, opening the door for strengthened trade ties with the United States. As the global business community responds, Trump’s aggressive tariff strategy is already reshaping international trade dynamics.

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