Trump Tariff Announcement - April 15, 2025

USA

Launched Section 232 investigations on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals to consider tariffs for national security reasons.
Initiated a national probe into critical mineral imports (cobalt, nickel, uranium, copper, rare earths) to curb reliance on foreign suppliers.
90-day tariff pause announced for non-China trading partners to allow space for over 70 bilateral trade negotiations.
Retailers like Walmart and Target cite cost spikes, while industrial sectors face delays in components and materials.
Projections from budget analysts suggest average U.S. households could lose $4,900 annually due to import-related price hikes.
Public demonstrations in New York, Chicago, and Seattle show bipartisan frustration with the tariff escalation strategy.

U.S. raised tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, targeting electronics, solar panels, and EVs.
China imposed 125% retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, including soybeans, beef, and aircraft parts.
Halted Boeing aircraft orders and rare earth exports to the U.S.
China increased trade volumes with Brazil, Argentina, and Southeast Asian nations to substitute American goods.

Subject to a 10% base tariff and additional 25% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles exported to the U.S.
EU imposed $23 billion in retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports such as bourbon, motorcycles, and produce.
European Commission filed a WTO complaint and initiated talks with Asian and Latin American countries to shift supply chains.

Brazil's soybean exports to China surged in Q1 2025, replacing lost U.S. shipments.
Beef exports from Brazil to China jumped by 33% amid the U.S.-China trade escalation.
Brazilian government exploring trade agreements with India and Indonesia to diversify markets.
Economists caution about overdependence on Chinese demand and commodity price volatility.

Facing a 24% tariff on exports to the U.S., primarily impacting auto parts and consumer electronics.
Japan has entered a 90-day negotiation window to seek exemption from the tariffs.
Concerns raised by Japanese firms over potential disruptions to supply chains and increased export costs.

Currently subject to a 10% tariff on general goods exported to the U.S.
British pharmaceutical sector lobbying U.S. to avoid a proposed 25% tariff on medicine and medical goods.
UK government pushing for fast-track trade talks under the paused tariff arrangement.

Subject to 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum and 10% on timber and dairy products.
Canada has enacted countermeasures on U.S. exports worth nearly $30 billion.
Canadian exporters warn that long-term U.S. market access may decline.

Exempt from general tariffs under the USMCA, but subject to stricter compliance checks.
Concerns about spillover impacts from U.S. auto part restrictions affecting supply chains.
Mexican government coordinating with the U.S. on bilateral reviews of labor standards and import certifications.

Thailand was hit with a 36% U.S. tariff on textiles, electronics, and processed food products.
Thai government is negotiating agricultural concessions in return for tariff reductions, particularly for rice and corn exports.
Thailand is working to diversify trade routes and boost regional trade agreements through ASEAN partnerships.

U.S. imposed a 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods due to the growing trade imbalance.
Targeted sectors include garments, furniture, and low-end electronics, prompting industry relocation talks.
Vietnam entered bilateral talks with the U.S. to seek suspension of tariffs and improve labor compliance transparency.

Facing a 10% U.S. tariff on generic pharmaceuticals, textiles, and information technology products.
India is lobbying for tech export exemptions and offering reciprocal cuts in high-end manufacturing goods.
Trade talks are ongoing, with a proposal to expand bilateral investment to ease tensions and improve access to digital markets.

1. How do these tariffs reshape global trade alliances and supply chains?

2. Which countries appear to be benefiting most from U.S.-China tensions, and why?

3. What are the short- and long-term implications for U.S. consumers and producers?

4. How should international institutions like the WTO respond to widespread tariff actions?