President Donald Trump’s resolution this morning to impose a brand new wave of U.S. import tariffs set off a flurry of statements from capitals world wide. Whereas some governments secured last-minute concessions, others blasted the transfer as a destabilizing shock to the worldwide buying and selling system.
Under is a region-by-region snapshot of at this time’s reactions.
North America
Canada
Prime Minister Mark Carney known as the brand new 35% U.S. tariff on sure Canadian items “a deep blow to cross-border enterprise.” The sectors most affected are metal, aluminum, autos, and lumber, whereas most different merchandise beneath CUSMA (USMCA) stay largely exempt. Carney reiterated Canada’s dedication to defending its pursuits, specializing in job safety and financial stability, however didn’t announce speedy counter-measures, preferring to pursue a diplomatic decision.
Mexico
President Claudia Sheinbaum secured a 90-day pause, protecting tariffs at their present charges, and welcomed the window for additional negotiation. The settlement retains the U.S. at a 25% tariff on Mexican vehicles and a 50% tariff on metal, aluminum, and copper, with a 25% “fentanyl tariff” on classes not lined beneath North American commerce agreements. Sheinbaum careworn that Mexico’s response will “defend its pursuits” and that retaliation might comply with if progress stalls. Discussions are deliberate to avert escalation, and Mexico is particularly in search of to guard its automotive sector as exempt from additional penalties.
Europe
European Union
European Fee President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged the brand new 15% baseline tariff for a lot of EU items is “disappointing, however extra favorable than the threatened 30%.” There’s a momentary suspension of earlier EU retaliatory duties by means of 6 August , pending ongoing negotiations. The EU is reviewing a listing of potential U.S. merchandise to focus on ought to additional U.S. will increase happen, specializing in industrial, auto, and chosen agricultural merchandise. Talks proceed, and the EU has reserved the fitting to swiftly implement proportionate countermeasures if wanted.
United Kingdom
The UK finalized a deal that usually units a baseline 10% tariff on British exports to the U.S., with quotas and particular exemptions for autos and aerospace. Some uncertainties stay, particularly relating to metal and aluminum, however ongoing talks have lowered the specter of wider hikes. Prime Minister Keir Starmer known as the compromise a “partial victory” and reiterated the UK’s dedication to open dialogue whereas opposing any drift towards a commerce battle that will hurt British trade.
Asia–Pacific
China
China at the moment faces a 30% mixed tariff price from the U.S. amid a short lived truce. Either side agreed to increase negotiations till at the very least 12 August, with expectations of an extra extension. Beijing is pushing for deeper talks to keep away from escalation and has thus far prevented main new counter-tariffs. China’s exports to the U.S. are predicted to say no sharply if tariffs persist, however Beijing stays publicly dedicated to in search of a negotiated answer.
India
The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff plus a “penalty” on Indian items starting 1 August . The Indian authorities has condemned the transfer as “unjust and destabilizing,” emphasizing its readiness to take “all steps mandatory” to guard nationwide pursuits. Particular retaliatory measures haven’t been detailed, however India is prioritizing the influence on its farmers, exporters, and MSMEs whereas persevering with talks with Washington.
Japan
A brand new settlement units a 15% tariff on Japanese exports to the U.S. from 7 August , down from the beforehand threatened 27.5% on autos and auto elements. Japan continues to hunt safety for its agricultural exports however is glad with securing stability for producers. Prime Minister Kishida has reaffirmed Japan’s dedication to the U.S. partnership whereas calling for additional dialogue to handle unresolved sectoral points.
South Korea
South Korea has clinched a deal for a 15% tariff on most exports in return for an extra $350 billion funding pledge within the U.S.. This was broadly considered in Seoul as mitigating the worst results and levelling the enjoying discipline, significantly within the automotive sector. Main Korean companies are transferring ahead with important new US-based commitments.
Different G20 Economies
Brazil
President Lula da Silva condemned the newly imposed 50% tariff on Brazilian exports as “brazenly political,” however highlighted that some agricultural merchandise had been spared. Brazil is getting ready to formally problem the measures on the World Commerce Group and likewise seeks to coordinate a broader BRICS response if mandatory.
South Africa
South Africa faces a 30% obligation on its exports to the U.S. Officers have characterised this as an “excessive blow” and are contemplating pressing retaliatory strikes, although no specifics have been introduced.
Smaller and Growing Nations
Leaders from Laos, Myanmar, Ghana, Iceland, and others have publicly warned of “rising prices and potential for deep financial hurt.” Many are advocating for joint motion by means of the African Union and ASEAN, however thus far, no concrete, coordinated counter-response has been introduced as of 1 August, 2025.
