Washington: In a sweeping move likely to shake global trade dynamics, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing steep additional tariffs on imports from 70 countries, including a 25% duty on goods from India. The new tariffs, effective from August 7, come amid stalled trade negotiations and rising geopolitical friction.
The hardest-hit countries include Syria (41%), Switzerland (39%), Iraq (35%), and Canada (35%). Other affected nations include Pakistan (19%), Sri Lanka (20%), Myanmar and Laos (40% each), Japan (15%), Brazil (10%), the United Kingdom (10%), and several African and Middle Eastern countries facing 30% tariffs.
Trump’s decision follows five rounds of unfruitful talks with India and growing discontent over New Delhi’s continued imports of Russian oil and arms, defying U.S. sanctions. The administration had initially scheduled the tariffs to take effect on August 1 but later postponed them to August 7.
Despite Trump’s previous threats of a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods, the final order limits it to 10%. Canada and other affected countries have already voiced strong objections to the decision.
India, taken aback by the escalation, has opted to reassess its strategy and continue negotiations, with the next round of talks expected in mid-August. A final deal had been hoped for by October, but the sudden imposition of tariffs has added fresh uncertainty to the diplomatic table.
