Global Leaders React as US Imposes New Tariffs on 60 Trading Partners

Post by : Saif

Several governments have reacted after the United States imposed new 10% and 12.5% tariffs on goods from 60 trading partners, including the European Union and China, citing concerns over the enforcement of forced labour bans.

The new duties replaced the temporary 10% global tariff that expired on July 24 and have drawn mixed reactions from affected countries.

European Union Calls Move a Surprise

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the tariffs were unexpected and questioned Washington's justification.

She argued that the EU maintains strong labour protections and said the bloc had honoured its trade commitments with the United States, describing the new tariffs as a "negative surprise."

Australia and Brazil Criticise Tariffs

Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell described the tariffs on Australian goods as "completely unjustified" and said Canberra would continue discussions with US officials to seek their removal.

Brazil also rejected the US decision, calling it arbitrary and unjustified. The Brazilian government announced plans to invoke its Reciprocity Law and take the dispute to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Read more: EU-US Trade Hits Record €875 Billion Despite Tariff Tensions, German Study Reveals

Mexico Sees No Immediate Impact

Mexico's Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said the new measures would not change the country's effective tariff treatment because the new duties replace the previous tariff structure.

Malaysia and Philippines Seek Dialogue

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed the relatively lower 10% tariff on Malaysian goods but said negotiations with Washington would continue to protect national interests.

The Philippines said it would continue engaging with the United States to demonstrate its compliance with international labour standards and emphasised the importance of maintaining stable bilateral trade.

Trade Uncertainty Continues

The new US tariffs have increased uncertainty in global trade, with several countries signalling they will pursue diplomatic talks or legal avenues while assessing the impact on exports and supply chains.

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