As the August 1 deadline for new U.S. tariffs draws near, governmental and economic strategists across Asia and Africa are swiftly crafting responses to President Trump’s heavy-handed trade signals.
In Tokyo, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described the announcement of a 25% tariff—up from April’s proposed 24%—as “truly regrettable.” Speaking during an emergency cabinet session, Ishiba emphasized that “depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised,” signaling that diplomatic channels remain open.
Facing 20% reciprocal duties, Seoul has mobilized its national task force, convening officials from the finance, trade, and foreign ministries by 1:30 p.m. local time—including the presidential chief of staff—to respond to the U.S. tariff notice. South Korean officials acknowledge that timely engagement is now paramount.
Trade shocks hit harder in Southeast Asia. Thailand faces a 36% levy, one of the steepest among the 14 affected countries. Thai Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira admitted the high rate came as a “little shock,” yet noted that “we remain confident it can be lowered” through negotiation.
Malaysia’s tariff increase to 25% was met with a firm response from its Ministry of Trade, which reaffirmed its push for a “balanced, mutually beneficial, and comprehensive trade agreement.”
In a parallel development, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the 30% tariff levied on his country, describing it as excessive and misaligned with existing trade realities. He argued the decision lacked accurate economic data, noting 77% of U.S. imports enter his market duty-free, and reaffirmed South Africa’s pursuit of a “more balanced” trade relationship via diplomatic channels.
Deborah Elms of the Hinrich Foundation highlighted a key concern: despite active diplomatic engagement and high-level outreach, many nations are still being subjected to the same tariff terms, with little evidence of customized concessions. She suggests the tariffs may reflect broader U.S. strategic concerns over China-linked supply chains, rather than purely bilateral tensions.
While President Trump shared the tariff memos via Truth Social, the White House has signaled that, though August 1 is the enforcement date, there is still room to adjust the tariffs after discussions. Negotiators now have less than a month to reshape this new era of U.S. trade policy, while exporting nations rush to protect their markets.
