Trump Signs Letters to Impose New US Tariffs on 12 Countries, Effective August 1

US President Donald Trump revealed on Friday that he has signed formal letters to 12 countries, outlining the specific tariff levels they will face on goods exported to the United States. The letters, described by Trump as “take it or leave it” offers, are scheduled to be sent on Monday.

Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to New Jersey, Trump declined to publicly name the countries affected, noting that the full list would be revealed when the letters are sent.

Tariff Deadlines Shift Amid Trade Negotiation Setbacks

US President Donald Trump had initially mentioned that the letters might go out on Friday, coinciding with a US national holiday, but the timeline has since changed. In April, Trump introduced a 10% base tariff for most nations, with additional duties reaching as high as 50%. However, these higher rates were suspended for a 90-day negotiation window, which ends on July 9.

He added on Friday that tariff rates could increase even further:

“The tariffs could be even higher – ranging up to 70% – with most set to go into effect August 1.”

“I signed some letters and they’ll go out on Monday, probably twelve,” Trump said. “Different amounts of money, different amounts of tariffs.”

Challenges Stall Broader Trade Deals

Negotiations With Major Partners Falter

Although Trump and his administration initially hoped to negotiate tariff structures with many nations, including allies such as Japan and the European Union, those efforts have been largely unsuccessful. The president has since grown skeptical of the diplomatic process, frustrated by delays and deadlocks.

So far, the only finalized agreements include:

• A deal with Britain in May, maintaining the 10% tariff rate, with preferential access for specific sectors like autos and aircraft engines.

• An agreement with Vietnam, reducing tariffs on Vietnamese goods to 20% (down from a proposed 46%) and allowing many US goods to enter Vietnam duty-free.

India and EU Deals Remain Elusive

An anticipated trade agreement with India has not materialized. Meanwhile, European Union diplomats have admitted failure in recent negotiations with the US and are now considering ways to extend the current trade status quo to prevent further tariff hikes.

What’s Next in the US Trade Agenda?

• Tariff letters to 12 unnamed countries to be sent Monday.

• Tariff levels could go as high as 70% starting August 1.

• Negotiation window ends July 9.

• US seeks stronger trade terms amid global tensions.

Conclusion

In a bold escalation of his trade strategy, President Donald Trump has approved a set of tariff offers targeting 12 countries, signaling a significant shift toward more aggressive, unilateral economic policies.

These tariffs, some of which could climb as high as 70%, represent a sharp increase from the base rate of 10% initially proposed in April.

As the 90-day negotiation window nears its July 9 deadline, the White House’s decision to move forward with these letters suggests growing impatience with the slow pace of talks. Stalled discussions with key trading partners such as the European Union, India, and Japan have prompted the administration to abandon the multilateral approach in favor of direct pressure.

The tariffs are expected to take effect on August 1, raising concerns about further volatility in global trade and financial markets. With few major deals finalized, this move could mark the beginning of a renewed phase in the ongoing global trade war.