By Usha Muthusamy
WASHINGTON, 6 July 2025: U.S. President Donald Trump announced he has signed letters outlining new tariff levels for 12 countries, with these “take it or leave it” offers scheduled to be sent out on Monday, July 7, 2025. The specific nations targeted by these new import duties remain undisclosed, with the President stating their identities will be made public upon the letters’ dispatch.
The move comes as a 90-day suspension period for higher “reciprocal” tariffs is set to expire on July 9. President Trump indicated that while a base rate of 10 percent was announced in April, some new tariff levels could range as high as 70 percent, with most of these elevated duties expected to take effect on August 1.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, President Trump justified this direct approach by stating that sending letters is “much easier” than engaging in protracted negotiations. This reflects a shift in strategy, suggesting dissatisfaction with the pace and outcomes of previous trade talks.
To date, the Trump administration has finalized trade agreements with Britain, maintaining a 10 percent tariff rate and securing preferential treatment for certain sectors, and with Vietnam, which saw tariffs on many goods reduced to 20 percent. However, a deal anticipated with India has not materialized, and European Union diplomats have indicated a lack of breakthrough in their trade negotiations with the U.S. administration, possibly leading to efforts to extend the status quo to avoid new tariff hikes.
