| August 7, 2025 — A sweeping wave of new country-specific “reciprocal” tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump came into force at 12:01 AM Washington time on Thursday, escalating global trade tensions and sending shockwaves through international markets.
The tariffs — announced just days before the August 1 deadline — are designed to penalize what the Trump administration calls “unfair trade practices”. Tariff rates range from 10% on UK exports to a staggering 41% on Syrian goods, and apply on top of existing U.S. import duties.
India Among the Hardest Hit
India, already facing a 25% base tariff, is now subject to an additional 25% levy following an executive order signed by Trump on Wednesday. The move is in retaliation for India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil, a decision the U.S. considers to be undermining its sanctions on Moscow.
The Indian government has been given 21 days to respond, with President Trump warning that other countries trading with Russia could face similar penalties.
Brazil, UK, and EU Affected
- Brazil now faces a total 50% tariff on its exports after an added 40% levy was imposed in response to what Washington called “democratic backsliding” following the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
- The UK will see an additional 10% tariff across various export categories.
- The European Union fared slightly better due to a pre-existing framework agreement, capping most affected items like cheese at a combined 15% rate, instead of the full compounded rate.
Swiss Officials Blindsided
Switzerland was hit with a 39% tariff, a move described as “shocking” by Swiss leaders. President Karin Keller-Sutter rushed to Washington this week for emergency talks with senior Trump officials in a bid to roll back the tariffs. Upon her return, the Swiss government scheduled an extraordinary cabinet meeting for Thursday.
Trump Defends the Move
In a late-night social media post, Trump hailed the tariffs as a boon for American revenue, claiming “billions of dollars will start flowing into the U.S.” He also attacked ongoing legal challenges against the policy, saying:
“The only thing that can stop America’s greatness would be a radical left court that wants to see our country fail.”
The U.S. Court of Appeals is currently considering whether Trump overstepped his executive authority by implementing the reciprocal tariffs without congressional approval.
Global Backlash and Warnings
Governments around the world are rushing to strike deals or lobby for exemptions, fearing the tariffs will:
- Deter international investors
- Trigger job losses
- Fuel trade wars and retaliatory duties
Economists warn that prolonged disputes could strain already fragile global supply chains, especially for agricultural and industrial goods.
