Trump's tariff pressure: countries react to the ultimatum

US President Donald Trump has officially announced an increase in import duties for a number of countries, including key trading partners. The new tariff rates range from 20% to 36% and will come into force on August 1. Such a measure was perceived by a number of States as unfriendly, but it is accompanied by a proposal to continue negotiations.

Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and South Africa are among the countries affected by the new conditions. The Japanese Prime Minister expressed "real regret" over Washington's actions, while emphasizing his intention to continue the dialogue. Japanese goods will now be subject to a 25% duty instead of the previously announced 24%. The US administration has made it clear that in case of a constructive response from Tokyo, the tariff may be revised.

South Korea has received a notice to maintain its previous 20% rate, but is actively stepping up its negotiating efforts. The South Korean Trade minister held a meeting with the US Secretary of Commerce, where he voiced a request to reduce duties on cars, steel and other key categories.

Thailand's finance minister admitted that he was "a little shocked" by the reported 36% rate, the highest among the countries mentioned. Despite this, Bangkok remains cautiously optimistic about the possibility of a renegotiation.

Malaysia is facing an increase in the duty to 25%. The country's government has officially announced its intention to continue dialogue with the United States for a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement. It emphasizes openness to the discussion of all controversial points.

A separate position was voiced by the President of South Africa, expressing disagreement with the 30% duty. He referred to statistics that show that more than 77% of American goods are imported into the country without duties. Pretoria aims to resolve the dispute diplomatically and create fairer trade conditions.

Experts note that the effect of diplomatic efforts by countries facing tariffs remains limited. Even states that actively engaged in a dialogue with the US administration and sent delegations for discussions received conditions similar to those that did not participate in the negotiations.

The published letters with details of tariffs became available to the general public thanks to the publication by the president himself. They emphasize that rate adjustments are possible until August 1, subject to a constructive response from the affected countries.

Rising trade tensions in the Asian region are causing concern among international analysts. It mentions the possibility that the US administration continues to target countries that are closely involved in regional production chains with Chinese components. Against this background, Asian and African countries are trying to develop a response strategy that will allow them to maintain access to the world's largest market on acceptable terms.