U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday setting new "reciprocal tariff" rates on a number of countries and regions, ranging from 10 to 41 percent. The order will take effect in seven days.
The decision has drawn swift criticism and concern from key trading partners, including Canada, South Africa, and India, who have vowed to defend their interests while remaining open to dialogue.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday that the European Union will enter talks with the United States on steel tariffs. Calling the current tariff agreement as "painful" for the European industries, Merz warned that a full-blown trade war would have no winners, with Europe potentially suffering the most.
President of Swiss Confederation Karin Keller-Sutter has expressed shock at the newly announced 39 percent tariff rate, which she said nullifies a bilateral trade agreement reached with the U.S. in early July. She warned the tariffs could severely impact Swiss manufacturing and watchmaking industries, with ripple effects threatening the global economy. The Swiss government is urgently seeking solutions.
Brazil's Finance Minister Fernando Haddad said on Friday that although several key Brazilian export products have been exempted from tariffs, many unreasonable tariff measures still exist.
He said that Brazil would initiate trade negotiations with the U.S. and, if necessary, take the case to U.S. courts and the World Trade Organization. Haddad emphasized Brazil's resolve to defend its sovereignty and economy through both legal and diplomatic channels.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged to use all diplomatic means to safeguard national interests. In response to a 30-percent tariff rate, South Africa has submitted a proposed framework to the U.S. aimed at deepening mutually beneficial trade ties. Ramaphosa's office has also revealed plans to introduce support measures for businesses and workers most vulnerable to the tariff impacts.
US tariffs spark global backlash, trade concerns
