Introduction
On July 9–10, 2025, Donald Trump, President of the USA, announced a sweeping set of new tariffs. These tariff rates target Brazil, copper imports, and a group of other countries. The move is part of Trump’s ongoing trade strategy to reshape America’s economic ties. This article explains Trump’s new tariff, the countries involved, the tariff rates, the reasons behind the announcement, and what it could mean for trade and consumers.
Why Trump Announced New Tariffs?
Trade Deficit and Reciprocity
President Trump has repeatedly pointed to the US trade deficit with many countries. He argues that some partners have unfair trade practices. In his view, tariffs are needed to force reciprocal trade deals—where both sides treat each other fairly .
Political Motivation – Bolsonaro and Brazil on Trump Tarriff
One major target is Brazil. Trump criticized Brazil’s legal actions against former President Jair Bolsonaro, calling them a “witch hunt.” He argues that Brazil has treated U.S. tech companies unfairly and reduced free expression. As a result, he imposed a steep 50% tariff on Brazilian goods.
National Security and Copper
Trump also announced a 50% tariff on copper imports to the U.S. effective August 1, 2025. He said copper is vital for key American industries—semiconductors, defense systems, electronics, and more. The tariff aims to boost domestic production as part of national security policy.
Overview of Tariff Rates and Countries
Brazil – Trump Announces 50% Tariff
Starting August 1, the USA will charge 50% tariff on all imports from Brazil. Trump linked this decision to Brazil’s treatment of Bolsonaro and cited trade grievances. Brazilian President Lula warned of retaliation under reciprocal trade rules.
Copper Imports – 50% Tariff
The new 50% tariff on copper is not country-based. It targets imports from all countries, especially top suppliers such as Chile, Canada, and Mexico, which together provide almost half of U.S. copper needs. The measure links to defense and high‑tech supply chains.
Trump Announces New Tariff on Other Countries and Rates
On August 1, Trump will apply reciprocal tariff rates for several countries based on letters sent earlier:
- Japan – 25%
- South Korea – 25%
- South Africa – 30%
- Kazakhstan – 25%
- Laos – 40%
- Malaysia – 25%
- Myanmar – 40%
- Tunisia – 25%
- Bosnia and Herzegovina – 30%
- Indonesia – 32%
- Bangladesh – 35%
- Serbia – 35%
- Cambodia – 36%
- Thailand – 36%
- Vietnam – 20% (announced separately.
Additionally, separate letters set rates for six smaller countries:
- Philippines – 20%
- Brunei – 25%
- Moldova – 25%
- Iraq – 30%
- Algeria – 30%
- Libya – 30%
These rates will also start on August 1 unless trade deals are reached before then.
List of Affected Countries and Tariff Rates
| Country | Tariff Rate |
| Brazil | 50% |
| Japan | 25% |
| South Korea | 25% |
| South Africa | 30% |
| Kazakhstan | 25% |
| Laos | 40% |
| Malaysia | 25% |
| Myanmar (Burma) | 40% |
| Tunisia | 25% |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | 30% |
| Indonesia | 32% |
| Bangladesh | 35% |
| Serbia | 35% |
| Cambodia | 36% |
| Thailand | 36% |
| Vietnam | 20% |
Additional targeted countries:
- Philippines – 20%
- Brunei – 25%
- Moldova – 25%
- Iraq – 30%
- Algeria – 30%
- Libya – 30%
Sector-specific:
- Copper imports (all origins) – 50%
How the New Tariffs Fit Into Trump’s Broader Trade Policy
“Liberation Day” and Reciprocal Tariffs
Trump first introduced a “baseline” 10% tariff on imports as part of his Liberation Day plan (Executive Order 14257 in April 2025). On top of that, country‑specific reciprocal tariffs between 11% and 50% were applied to nations with large trade imbalances. This plan aimed to restore economic parity and reduce deficits.
Use of Emergency Powers
Trump also used national emergency powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to raise tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, citing issues like drug trafficking via fentanyl. These tariffs included 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico, and rising tariffs on Chinese goods (up to 20%).
Judicial Challenges
As expected, some legal experts and businesses challenged the tariff moves. Critics argue the IEEPA-based tariffs exceed presidential authority. U.S. courts initially found aspects unconstitutional, though those rulings have been stayed pending appeal, keeping the tariffs in force for now.
Potential Economic Impact of Trump Tariffs
Inflation and Consumer Costs
Analysts warn these tariff rates could raise prices on goods like steel, aluminum, copper, electronics, and consumer products. Copper is especially important. After Trump’s announcement, U.S. copper futures hit record highs, which could raise costs in building, transport, electronics, and clean energy sectors .
Global Trade Tensions
The EU and major trading partners have signaled concern. Germany warned the EU may retaliate if U.S. trade terms remain unbalanced. In Asia, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been working to calm tensions with countries affected by the tariffs, such as Japan, South Korea, Philippines, and others.
Market Reaction
U.S. markets have shown mixed reactions. The S&P 500 dipped slightly after the tariff announcements, and treasury yields rose. Still, broad investor confidence remained because of strength in tech stocks like Nvidia, which reached a $4 trillion market cap despite trade tensions.
Reactions from Affected Countries
Brazil’s Response to Trump’s New Tariff
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva rejected Trump’s claims. He defended Brazil’s sovereignty and legal processes, including actions against Bolsonaro. Lula said Brazil may launch retaliation based on reciprocity laws. Bolsonaro himself thanked Trump for the support.
H2: Smaller Economies’ Concerns
Countries like Algeria, Libya, Iraq, Brunei, Philippines, Moldova whose exports are relatively small compared to Brazil’s, are still worried. They face major hits to sectors like oil, agriculture, raw materials, and mining. Trade experts warn that they may struggle to negotiate quickly enough to avoid tariffs.
What’s Next? Will Trump Announce more Tariff?
Negotiation Window
Trump set an August 1, 2025 deadline. Countries that strike deals before then may avoid the high tariff rates. He shared that a letter from the U.S. counts as a deal if a country responds. But many governments have struggled to respond fast enough.
Sectoral Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals and Semiconductors
Trump has hinted at future tariffs of up to 200% on pharmaceutical products, especially if production does not relocate to the U.S. He also mentioned pending tariffs on imported semiconductor chips as part of broader strategic priorities.
Further Letters and Tariffs
The White House indicated it may send more tariff letters in coming days. This could bring additional countries into Trump’s plan. Each new letter includes a proposed reciprocal tariff rate aimed at balancing trade relations.
Summary
- Donald Trump, President of the USA, announced new tariff policy and tariff rates for Brazil, copper imports, and multiple countries.
- Brazil faces a 50% tariff on all goods from August 1, tied to political disputes and trade issues.
- Copper imports from any country will also face a 50% tariff due to national security concerns.
- Additional reciprocal tariffs between 25% and 40% apply to countries like Japan, South Korea, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh, and others.
- A group of six smaller countries gets rates from 20% to 30% under specific letters.
- The move ties into Trump’s earlier “Liberation Day” trade plan and use of emergency powers under IEEPA.
- Economists warn of supply chain disruption, inflation, and trade retaliation. Some legal challenges are pending.
- A negotiation window ends August 1, though new tariffs may follow in coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
Trump framed these new tariff rates as part of his commitment to “America First” trade policy. He sees tariffs as tools to correct unfair trade imbalance and boost U.S. industry. Critics warn of inflation, market disruption, and global tension. As the USA moves closer to August 1, trade watchers, business leaders, and governments are watching closely to see who negotiates deals and who faces high tariffs.
This latest action marks a significant escalation in U.S. trade policy under Donald Trump, affecting multiple countries and global markets. The coming weeks will show whether the plan achieves its goals—or deepens global trade conflict.