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Tensions between the U.S. and its trading partners have escalated again after President Donald Trump announced an increase in import tariffs on more than a dozen countries. One of the most affected nations is Japan, which will face a 25% tariff on selected goods starting August 1. Tokyo immediately criticized the move as “truly regrettable,” warning it could disrupt the current trade balance.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, during a closed-door meeting with his cabinet ministers, stated that despite its strong objection, Japan remains committed to dialogue with Washington. He also noted that the U.S. might reconsider the decision based on how Japan responds in the coming weeks.
“The contents of the letter may be revised if Japan presents a suitable proposal,” Ishiba said.

Trump Publishes Tariff Letters Online
Trump chose an unusual way to announce the new tariffs—by posting screenshots of official letters addressed to each country on his Truth Social platform. The posts confirmed that the new tariffs would take effect on August 1 but also suggested that they could be revised if the countries involved come forward with serious offers.

South Korea Pushes for Exemptions, but No Results Yet
South Korea, which is facing an unchanged 20% tariff, is actively lobbying for concessions. Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo met with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to discuss the reduction of tariffs on steel, automobiles, and other key exports. However, no official updates followed the meeting.

Thailand, Malaysia, and South Africa Respond with Frustration
Thailand’s Finance Minister expressed surprise that tariffs on Thai imports remained at a record-high 36%. Despite the shock, he said talks would continue, hoping for a reduction before the deadline.
Malaysia also saw its tariff increase from 24% to 25%. Its Ministry of Trade confirmed the country would remain engaged in negotiations with the U.S., aiming for a “balanced and mutually beneficial agreement.”
In Africa, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized the 30% tariff imposed by Trump, saying it does not reflect actual trade conditions. On X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized that 77% of American goods enter the South African market duty-free, calling for fair and equitable trade relations.

Analysts Remain Skeptical
Trade experts remain doubtful that ongoing efforts will lead to major concessions. Deborah Elms, head of trade policy at the Hinrich Foundation, said ASEAN members who invested significant effort into building negotiation packages received the same treatment as countries that didn’t engage at all.
She added that Trump may continue targeting Asian nations due to U.S. concerns over regional supply chains tied to China.
With the August 1 deadline approaching, countries have little time left to strike deals. Without resolution, the new tariffs could have long-lasting effects on both trade balances and global diplomatic relations.

#TRUMP , #Tariffs , #TruthSocial , #TradeWars , #TradingCommunity

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