On July 8, 2025, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced the introduction of new tariffs, marking a key political development of the day. The U.S. plans to impose tariffs of up to 25% on imports from South Korea and Japan, effective August 1 unless an agreement is reached. Additionally, tariffs of up to 40% are being considered for Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Laos, and Myanmar. This move is part of Washington's strategy to increase economic pressure on trade partners to renegotiate deals and protect domestic industries. The U.S. Department of Commerce claims the tariffs target products deemed to pose risks to the internal market — ranging from electronics to automobiles. Responses from South Korea and Japan have been restrained, though both countries expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution. Analysts suggest the tariffs could escalate economic tensions and provoke retaliatory measures. Trump's economic policy continues to revolve around the “America First” principle, and the new tariffs extend his campaign promises to reinforce domestic protections. However, this approach has drawn criticism from parts of the international community, which fears a trade war and global market instability. Sources: The Guardian, DW, KED Global.