Trump Threatens New Tariffs but Says August Deadline ‘Not 100% Firm’

U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited global trade tensions by threatening a new wave of steep tariffs on more than a dozen countries, including key allies Japan and South Korea, while simultaneously signaling that the August 1 implementation deadline remains negotiable. In letters posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump warned that suspended duties would resume at even higher rates, with some nations facing tariffs as high as 40%. Japan and South Korea, in particular, were informed they would be hit with 25% duties, with Trump citing “non-reciprocal” trade relationships. Other affected nations include Indonesia, Bangladesh, Thailand, South Africa, and Malaysia. Despite the tough rhetoric, Trump later stated the August deadline was “firm, but not 100 percent firm,” suggesting room for negotiation. The White House confirmed that the letters were part of a broader effort to secure trade deals, following limited success from Trump’s earlier pledge of “90 deals in 90 days.” While only a few agreements—namely with the UK and Vietnam—have materialized so far, further announcements are expected. Meanwhile, leaders from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Malaysia have expressed concern over the new tariffs but emphasized their willingness to engage diplomatically. The announcement has already rattled financial markets, with major U.S. indices falling sharply. Trump’s additional warning of extra tariffs for countries aligned with BRICS has added to the uncertainty surrounding his evolving trade strategy.

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