Washington– (LM) President Donald Trump unveiled a comprehensive set of reciprocal tariffs aimed at nearly all countries that the United States engages in trade with, marking a significant departure from the nation’s traditional support for free trade and globalization.
The new tariffs, which expand upon a series of similar measures since Trump resumed office on January 20, target nations with which the U.S. has substantial trade deficits or those that impose high tariffs on American goods. In 2023, the U.S. recorded a staggering $1.1 trillion trade deficit, the largest of any nation.
Among the countries affected by these tariffs are Syria and Myanmar, both facing severe challenges. Syria has been subjected to Israeli attacks following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, while Myanmar is grappling with the aftermath of devastating earthquakes amidst ongoing civil strife.
The tariffs also extend to economies like Sri Lanka and Pakistan, which are currently struggling to stabilize their financial situations and rely heavily on assistance from the International Monetary Fund.
This latest move by the Trump administration signals a continued shift toward protectionist policies, raising concerns about potential retaliatory measures and the implications for global trade relations. As the U.S. navigates this new economic landscape, the long-term effects on both domestic and international markets remain to be seen.
