CNN: Trump Targets Asia and Africa in Aggressive Tariff Spree, Hints at More to Come

According to Saed News, President Donald Trump escalated trade tensions on Monday by dispatching formal tariff notifications to leaders of 14 countries. The letters—sent to nations across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe—warned of new tariffs ranging from 25% to 40%, set to take effect on August 1 unless renegotiations yield results.

Among the first recipients were Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, both facing a uniform 25% tariff. Other countries—such as Malaysia, South Africa, Kazakhstan, and Myanmar—were informed of steeper levies. Trump cited trade imbalances and protectionist policies as justification, urging foreign producers to relocate manufacturing to U.S. soil to avoid punitive duties.

Although Trump simultaneously signed an executive order delaying reciprocal tariffs until August (excluding China), he remained noncommittal about the deadline’s finality, suggesting flexibility if bilateral talks progress.

Japan responded with “deep regret” and convened an emergency cabinet meeting. South Korea issued a warning about potential market volatility. Meanwhile, Thailand, Malaysia, and Bangladesh signaled readiness for negotiations, aiming to soften the blow. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called the tariff decision “misinformed” and pressed local firms to diversify.

Economically, the stakes are high. The targeted countries exported $465 billion worth of goods to the U.S. last year, with Japan and South Korea alone accounting for 60% of that figure. Items at risk range from cars and semiconductors to pharmaceuticals and apparel—industries critical to global supply chains.

Markets reacted swiftly. Following the announcements, major indices tumbled. The Dow dropped 422 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq shed nearly 1%, marking their steepest one-day decline in weeks. Shares of Japanese automakers plunged, raising fears that vehicle tariffs could soon be layered atop the announced country-specific duties.

In closing, Trump left little room for doubt, writing, “These tariffs may go higher or lower depending on our relationship.” The message is clear: the trade war may have paused, but it is far from over.