President Donald Trump announced Saturday that the United States will impose 30% tariffs on imports from the European Union and Mexico, effective from August 1.
The move targets two of America’s largest trade partners and signals a sharp escalation in Trump’s trade strategy during his second term.
Trump made the announcement via letters posted on Truth Social, where he addressed both Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
In his message to Mexico, Trump acknowledged the country’s cooperation in curbing undocumented migration and fentanyl trafficking. However, he criticized Mexico for not doing enough, stating that North America was at risk of becoming a “Narco-Trafficking Playground.”
In his letter to von der Leyen, Trump did not cite new specific grievances, but reiterated long-standing complaints about trade deficits and what he described as unfair trade barriers.
According to The New York Times, EU officials had been optimistic about a near-term trade deal with the U.S., and were prepared for potential 10% tariffs on certain goods, far less than the 30% now planned.
As with similar letters sent earlier to other nations, including Brazil, Trump warned that any retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods could lead to further increases in American tariffs.
The announcement has raised concerns in global markets and among international trade partners, setting the stage for renewed tensions in U.S. trade relations.
Shongjog 