WASHINGTON D.C., U.S. — U.S. President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs targeting 69 countries, citing unresolved trade disputes and national security concerns.
The tariffs, which will range from 10% to 41%, are set to take effect within a week.
The move comes under a directive tied to Executive Order 14257, which declared a national economic emergency, empowering the White House to enforce retaliatory trade measures.
“It has become necessary to address long-standing trade imbalances and protect American interests,” Trump said in a statement from the White House.
“Some countries have refused to engage in good-faith negotiations. Others have offered inadequate terms that fail to meet our standards.”
Africa Hit Hard, Uganda Singled Out in East Africa
Among the affected countries, several African nations are bracing for economic impact. Uganda is the only East African nation listed and will face a 15% tariff on its exports to the U.S.
South Africa, Algeria, and Libya were dealt the steepest blow on the continent with a 30% tariff, while Tunisia will face a 25% rate. Other African nations—including Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe—have all been hit with 15% duties.
Trade analysts warn the tariffs could significantly affect sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and mining, which form the backbone of many African economies’ exports to the United States.
Harshest Tariffs Reserved for Global Flashpoints
Globally, Syria faces the stiffest penalty with a 41% import duty, closely followed by Laos and Myanmar at 40%. Switzerland—often seen as neutral in global politics—has surprisingly found itself subject to a 39% tariff. Iraq, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina also made the list, with rates between 30% and 35%.
“This is a calculated move to apply pressure on countries we believe have exploited trade loopholes or failed to align with our security and economic priorities,” a senior administration official told reporters under condition of anonymity.
All Other Nations to Pay 10% Base Tariff
Countries not explicitly listed in the new directive will still be affected by a blanket 10% tariff on all goods entering the United States.
This marks a broad expansion of Trump’s protectionist trade agenda, which has long emphasized “America First” policies and threatened to disrupt global supply chains.
Mixed Reactions From Global Markets
Initial reactions from global markets have been cautious. Economists fear the new tariffs could reignite trade tensions and derail post-pandemic recovery efforts in developing nations.
Several governments, including those in Africa and Southeast Asia, are expected to request diplomatic engagement or retaliate with their own trade measures.
The Trump administration, however, maintains that the tariff strategy is aimed at restoring fair trade and protecting U.S. industry and labor.
“We are open to revisiting these tariffs—but only when our trading partners show a genuine commitment to reform and reciprocity,” Trump concluded.
