Trump Ramps Up Trade War with Tariff Blitz Targeting 14 Countries

President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping new wave of tariffs on imports from 14 countries, escalating his push to reshape trade relationships in favor of American industries.

The new measures will impose tariffs ranging from 25% to 40% on goods from countries including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and others. Trump stated that the tariffs are intended to address what he described as unfair trade practices that disadvantage American workers and businesses.

In his announcement, Trump extended a negotiation window until August 1, giving the targeted countries an opportunity to reach new trade agreements with the United States to avoid the tariffs taking effect. He noted that while the U.S. remains open to dialogue, it is prepared to enforce the tariffs if agreements are not reached within the deadline.

The tariff plan is part of Trump’s broader strategy to reduce trade deficits and encourage domestic manufacturing by penalizing countries that, according to him, have benefited from trade imbalances with the United States. The announcement has raised concerns among businesses that rely on imports from the affected countries, with some warning that the tariffs could lead to higher costs for consumers.

Trump emphasized that additional measures could be taken if countries attempt to retaliate, asserting that the United States will continue to prioritize what he called fair and reciprocal trade.

The latest move signals that trade policy will remain a central focus for Trump as he continues to shape the U.S. economic landscape with an emphasis on protecting American industries.

With input from Al Jazeera