In a sweeping move to reset global trade dynamics, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new set of tariffs on goods from more than 90 countries, affecting economies across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
The updated tariff regime, detailed in an executive white paper released by the White House, aligns with Trump’s long-standing policy to overhaul what he has repeatedly described as unfair trade practices against the United States.
Trade analyst Deborah Elms, speaking to the BBC, said the measures are part of Trump’s wider effort to restructure global trade frameworks in favor of U.S. manufacturing and supply chains.
From Postponement to Enforcement
Originally unveiled in April, the tariff plan initially sparked global economic concern and diplomatic unease. However, implementation was postponed to allow countries, including the United Kingdom, to negotiate revised trade deals with Washington.
Now reinstated, the tariffs will force companies exporting goods to the U.S. to pay additional duties, which experts warn could lead to price increases for American consumers.
Africa Among the Worst-Hit Regions
Several African nations have been included in the new tariffs, with varying levels of impact:
15% tariff: Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
25% tariff: Tunisia
30% tariff: Algeria, South Africa, Libya
Other regions face similar or even steeper tariffs.
Global Breakdown of Tariffs
Canada: 35% tariff now active, outside of the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement
Mexico: 25% on fentanyl and automobiles, 50% on steel, aluminium, and copper — effective in 90 days
European Union: Between 0–15%, effective August 7
Brazil: 10% base tariff, plus 40% added rate = 50% total on most goods.
Additional tariffs include:
10%: United Kingdom, Falkland Islands, and other unspecified nations
15%: Japan, South Korea, Israel, Norway, Turkey, Trinidad & Tobago, Venezuela, and others
20%: Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam
25%: India, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Moldova
30%–41%: Myanmar, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Iraq, Serbia, Syria, Switzerland
How Did We Get Here?
Trump had initially declared a 10% baseline tariff on all imports on April 2, citing trade imbalances. The White House identified around 69 trade partners — including China and the EU — as “worst offenders,” threatening them with higher penalties.
A 90-day negotiation window was granted, but as talks stalled, Trump moved forward with the tariffs. A recent deal with the EU will see European cars taxed at 15%, while select goods from the bloc will enjoy zero tariffs, pending approval by all 27 EU members.
U.S.–China negotiations are ongoing, after both sides previously imposed tariffs exceeding 100%, which were later reduced for temporary relief.
Global Reactions
Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed disappointment, stating that Ottawa will prioritize building domestic strength:
“Canadians will be our best customers. We can give ourselves more than any foreign government can take.”
Switzerland: The Swiss government responded cautiously, promising to assess the impact and “seek a negotiated solution” through ongoing communication with U.S. authorities.
South Africa: President Cyril Ramaphosa noted the 30% tariff “with concern” and confirmed that the South African government is preparing support measures for affected exporters. Negotiators are said to be ready and awaiting an invitation to restart bilateral talks with the U.S.
