Trump Warns 5 More Countries of New Tariffs

US President Donald Trump intensified his global trade dispute by issuing new tariff warnings to five additional countries, including South Africa, Malaysia, Myanmar, Laos, and Kazakhstan. These warnings come on top of the already targeted Japan and South Korea. The fresh letters threatened import duties ranging from 25% to 40%, effective August 1, as part of what Trump calls a move to address 'decades of unfair trade.'

The letters, nearly identical in tone and content, detailed the specific tariff rates for each country: South Africa - 30%, Malaysia - 25%, Myanmar - 40%, Laos - 40%, and Kazakhstan - 25%. Trump emphasized that despite significant trade deficits with these nations, the US had agreed to work with them, but reciprocity was lacking. He stated that goods transshipped to evade higher tariffs would face those tariffs, pushing for manufacturing in the US to avoid duties.

Justifying the tariffs not only on economic grounds but as a matter of national security, Trump cited the deficits posing a threat to the US economy and national security. The White House had previously postponed tariffs set for July 9, opting for formal notifications ahead of the new August 1 implementation date.

In a somewhat conciliatory tone, Trump left room for adjustment, indicating possible modifications to tariff rates based on trade relationship statuses. He concluded by stating that tariff levels could be adjusted depending on the country's relationship with the US.