New Round of Country-Specific Tariff Letters Announced

New Round of Country-Specific Tariff Letters Announced

With less than a month until new tariffs take effect, the U.S. has accelerated its rollout of country-specific reciprocal tariff letters, now reaching 22 countries in total. These tariffs are set to be enforced at 12:01 a.m. EDT on August 1, following the expiration of the current extension period.

These tariffs fall under the country-specific reciprocal tariff framework, a policy intended to address long-standing trade imbalances and alleged unfair practices by foreign governments. In President Trump’s words, this is part of a broader effort to “level the playing field” and reinforce U.S. sovereignty in trade policy.

Key Updates from July 9:

The countries receiving new tariff letters today include:

Trading Partner New Reciprocal Tariff Rate Initial Tariff Rate Announced April 2 Tariff Letter Issued
Brazil 50% 10% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114825119138468153
Sri Lanka 30% 44% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824296854236628
Libya 30% 31% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824023967307505
Iraq 30% 39% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824023967307505
Algeria 30% 30% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824019927996260
Moldova 25% 31% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824018420835079
Brunei 25% 24% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824016607656018
Philippines 20% 17% https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114824014589920439

 

What the Letters Include:

The structure of today’s tariff letters mirrors those sent earlier this week:

  • Effective Date: August 1, 2025
  • Scope: These tariffs are separate from “Sectoral Tariffs” and are subject to change depending on future diplomatic and trade conditions.
  • Anti-Evasion Clause: Goods suspected of transshipment to evade tariffs may face higher penalty rates, although no specific definition of “transshipment” was provided.
  • Adjustment Clause: Tariff rates may be adjusted up or down in response to future policy shifts or retaliation.

Spotlight: Brazil

Among the most significant updates is the tariff letter to Brazil, which sets a steep 50% reciprocal tariff rate. The letter cites not only trade imbalances but also alleged interference with democratic processes, suppression of free speech, and attacks on American digital trade activities. President Trump has also directed the U.S. Trade Representative to initiate a Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s digital trade policies.

According to President Trump, a tariff letter to the European Union is expected in the coming days, signaling more developments ahead. For importers, exporters, and supply chain professionals, this evolving situation warrants close attention and contingency planning as the August 1 deadline approaches.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates as new letters are issued and trade policies shift. If your business is impacted by international tariffs, now is the time to review your supply chain strategy and consider alternative sourcing, tariff classification reviews, and compliance planning.

GLC is ready to support in every case.