President Trump has begun publicly releasing letters announcing sweeping tariffs on at least 12 countries, starting August 1.

 

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has begun publicly releasing a series of tariff letters announcing significant trade penalties on at least 12 countries, set to take effect from August 1.

The latest round includes:

• 25% tariffs on Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Japan

• 30% tariffs on South Africa

• 40% tariffs on Laos and Myanmar

Trump described the measures as “reciprocal and corrective,” claiming they are aimed at countries that, in his view, undermine American economic interests. While some of the affected countries are reportedly in talks to negotiate exemptions, others are preparing for steep increases in trade costs and potential disruption to bilateral agreements.

See also: Japan, South Korea face 25% tariffs as Trump ramps up trade war in letters to 14 nations

The letters come after Trump delayed the enforcement date from July 9 to August 1, allowing time for last-minute diplomatic engagement. This move marks another chapter in Trump’s aggressive trade policy approach, which may reshape global trade dynamics if re-implemented under a second term.