📰 BREAKING: Trump Slaps 25% Tariffs on Japan & South Korea | Global Trade Tensions Escalate

Washington, D.C. – In a major move shaking up global trade, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially announced a 25% tariff on imports from Japan and South Korea, reigniting concerns of a fresh trade war.

The new tariffs, aimed at protecting American industries and jobs, will come into effect starting August 1st, according to a series of letters shared by the White House with foreign leaders and posted on social media.

🇺🇸 Why New Tariffs Now?

The decision follows the end of a 90-day pause that was earlier placed to allow trade talks with key U.S. allies. While the White House initially delayed the higher tariffs, the talks didn’t produce the desired outcomes, prompting Trump to double down on his original plans.

“These tariffs are about fairness and putting America first,” Trump stated, adding that the goal is to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign products.

📉 Markets React: Stocks Dip on Tariff News

After the announcement, U.S. stock markets showed early signs of decline, reflecting investor concerns over renewed global trade friction. Shares of major exporters and import-reliant industries were particularly hit.

The tariffs are similar to the rates Trump proposed back in April, when he declared “Liberation Day” for American manufacturing and hinted at sweeping new duties on goods from Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

🌍 Who Else Is Affected?

Besides Japan and South Korea, the Trump administration revealed additional plans:

• 40% tariff on goods from Myanmar and Laos

• 30% tariff on South African imports

• 25% tariff on products from Malaysia

More letters are expected to be sent to around 12 other countries, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirming that the administration will continue to release updates publicly.

“Leaders from around the world are calling, hoping to strike deals before the August deadline,” Leavitt said.

📦 Car Tariffs Still a Hot Topic

Among the stickiest points in these negotiations are car and steel imports, particularly from Japan and South Korea. Trump has previously warned that automobiles could face a 30% to 35% tariff if no agreement is reached.

While the U.S. has already finalized deals with the UK, Vietnam, and China, those agreements still involve higher tariffs than before and leave several trade issues unresolved.

🤝 EU Talks Still Ongoing

Meanwhile, talks with the European Union continue, with hopes of avoiding a massive 50% tariff on cars and aluminum. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is reportedly in active discussion with Trump’s team.