Trump widens tariff threat to seven more nations, sets August 1 deadline

U.S. President Donald Trump has expanded his tariff focus. The president sent letters to the leaders of seven additional countries notifying them of a 30% set tariff rate on imports.

This move adds to an ongoing effort to renegotiate trade relationships with a total of 21 countries, amid broader tensions over trade deficits and policy disagreements.

The latest letters, released via Truth Social, specify tariff rates up to 30% on goods imported from the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Moldova, Brunei, Algeria, Libya, and Iraq.

Collectively, the seven countries involved in the recent notices accounted for $29 billion in U.S. imports in 2024, representing less than 1% of total U.S. imports, CNN reported.

Trump said the tariffs would be adjusted "depending on our relationship with your country" and noted that they are "far less than what is needed to eliminate the Trade Deficit disparity we have with your country." The tariffs are scheduled to take effect next month, pending negotiations.

The proposed tariffs range from 20% to 30%, with some rates higher or unchanged since April. 

This follows a broader series of tariff escalation threats issued earlier this week to countries like Japan, South Korea and Malaysia, with rates ranging from 20% to 40%.

Trump emphasized that “a letter means a deal,” though few trade agreements have materialized. 

The tariffs are aimed at addressing perceived trade imbalances, with Trump urging nations to manufacture in the U.S. to avoid tariffs. 

The next deadline for countries to negotiate trade deals was extended to August 1, with the potential for further tariff actions depending on progress.

Developing news. Check back for updates.

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