As the clock ticks down on a critical global trade deadline, former U.S. President Donald Trump is once again making headlines with his aggressive tariff strategy.
Trump, 79, has threatened to raise duties on imports from dozens of countries unless new trade deals are struck before midnight on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
Many countries, including U.S. neighbours Canada and Mexico, are still rushing to meet the deadline. While nations like South Korea and the UK managed to reach last-minute agreements, Trump is pushing ahead with a 25% tariff on Indian imports and a shocking 50% duty on Brazilian goods, though he’s allowing delays and exemptions for some allies.
Trump defended his move on Truth Social, saying, “Tariffs are making America GREAT & RICH Again,” claiming that the U.S. economy needs protection to survive.
However, critics argue that the blanket tariffs could increase inflation and hurt American consumers. Economists and legal experts are also watching a federal court case challenging Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose these tariffs.
Meanwhile, Canada’s trade deal is in limbo, as Trump responded sharply to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan to recognise Palestine at the UN, warning it could affect trade talks.
With global trade partners on edge, Trump’s latest tariff war is shaping up to be a high-stakes gamble that could impact economies far beyond U.S. borders.
