Policy Shift at the White House
In a notable shift, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a broad set of new tariffs on imports from dozens of countries. However, contrary to earlier announcements, these tariffs will not take effect immediately. According to the White House, the new measures—originally expected to begin on August 1—will now come into force on August 7. This delay also applies to the 15% tariff on goods imported from the European Union.
A White House official confirmed the postponement, stating that the extension is intended to give customs and border agencies more time to prepare for the new procedures. The EU had also referenced August 1 in its summary of the recent trade agreement signed in Scotland, noting that the U.S. would apply the highest tariff rates to the majority of EU exports starting on that date.
Tariffs Target Nearly 70 Countries
Alongside the delay, Trump issued a sweeping executive order outlining new tariffs for nations that do not currently have formal trade agreements with the United States. The order includes a list of nearly 70 countries, including members of the EU, each assigned specific tariff rates ranging from 10% to 50%.
Switzerland is among the hardest hit, facing a new 39% tariff rate—up from the previously planned 31%. Swiss officials expressed deep disappointment, with a finance ministry spokesperson noting that the finalized rate significantly deviated from the terms outlined in a draft joint declaration. Switzerland is still holding out hope for a negotiated resolution.
Revised Tariff List Takes Effect August 7
The new tariff schedule, signed into law by Trump, will take effect next Wednesday. Tariff rates will range from 10% to 41%, applying to a broad spectrum of U.S. trading partners. The 15% tariff agreed upon with the EU over the weekend is also included in the revised plan.
Canada is another country facing sharp increases. Goods from Canada that fall outside the scope of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) will now be subject to a 35% tariff. The U.S. government stated that this move was made in response to what it called “continued inaction and retaliatory measures” by Canada. Despite the tough stance, Trump told NBC News he remains open to further discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Brics Nations and South Africa See Elevated Rates
Other countries facing stiff penalties include several members of the Brics alliance. South Africa will be hit with a 30% import tariff, while India is facing a 25% tariff, announced earlier in the week. Brazil, with which the U.S. has seen strained relations due to disputes involving former President Jair Bolsonaro, will be subject to a 50% tariff starting next week.
Asian Countries Mostly Face Moderate Tariffs
In Asia, many nations will be impacted, though with comparatively lower rates. Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Pakistan will all see a standard 19% tariff applied to their exports to the U.S. Similar rates have already been agreed upon with Indonesia and the Philippines. Vietnam, however, will face a slightly higher 20% tariff under the terms of a recent trade agreement.
Taiwan, a major semiconductor exporter, and Bangladesh, known for its textile manufacturing, will also face 20% tariffs on their goods. These measures are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to recalibrate global trade relationships and assert stronger U.S. control over import policies.
Outlook Remains Uncertain
As the new tariffs move toward implementation, affected countries are weighing their options. While some, like Switzerland and Canada, continue to seek diplomatic solutions, the aggressive scope of the U.S. measures suggests that global trade tensions could escalate further in the coming weeks.