A sweeping wave of U.S. tariffs championed by President Donald Trump has officially taken effect, impacting more than 90 countries and shaking global trade networks. Announcing the move with trademark flair on social media, Trump wrote, “IT’S MIDNIGHT!!! BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TARIFFS ARE NOW FLOWING INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!”
At the heart of Trump’s strategy is a push for what he calls “reciprocal tariffs,” aimed at resetting what he sees as unfair global trade rules that disadvantage the U.S. But the measures are already drawing fire from several affected nations and sparking global economic uncertainty.
India, Canada, and Taiwan Hit Hard
India has been slapped with a 50% tariff, set to take effect on August 27, unless it halts its oil imports from Russia. New Delhi has described the move as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” promising to defend its economic interests.
Taiwan, a close U.S. ally, was handed a 20% tariff but has called it “temporary,” with talks ongoing. Meanwhile, Canada saw its tariff rate rise from 25% to 35%, a decision Trump defended by accusing Ottawa of failing to curb the flow of illegal drugs into the U.S. Despite the increase, most Canadian exports are expected to avoid penalties due to protections under the USMCA trade agreement.
Tech in the Spotlight: 100% Tariff on Foreign Chips
Trump’s trade crackdown also extends to high-tech goods, with a 100% tariff on foreign-made semiconductors. However, major chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix, who have heavily invested in U.S. facilities, are reportedly exempt. The move aligns with Trump’s push for companies like Apple to expand domestic production. Apple, under White House pressure, recently pledged a $100 billion investment in the U.S.
Brazil and India Face Political Blowback
Brazil’s exports to the U.S. now carry a 50% tariff after Trump accused President Lula da Silva of attacking U.S. tech firms and interfering in political investigations. Analysts say these actions signal a harder Trump stance toward countries maintaining strong ties with U.S. rivals, especially Russia.
Southeast Asia and Europe React
Southeast Asian economies that rely on exports have been among the hardest hit, with Laos and Myanmar facing steep tariffs of 40%. Meanwhile, the European Union managed to strike a framework deal, accepting a 15% tariff as part of ongoing negotiations. Other major economies like the UK, Japan, and South Korea also secured lower rates by reaching separate agreements with Washington.
Mixed Global Reactions
As businesses scramble to adapt, some analysts say the finalized tariff list may bring temporary stability after months of unpredictability. “This is supposed to be it,” said Bert Hofman of the National University of Singapore. “Now you can start to analyse the impact.”
Talks between the U.S. and China continue ahead of an August 12 deadline to extend a separate 90-day pause on tariffs.
With Trump’s policies now in full swing, governments and global markets are bracing for the ripple effects, some hoping to negotiate relief, others preparing for a prolonged trade standoff.
