US hits dozens of countries with new wave of tariffs

July 24, 2026

The United States has imposed new tariffs ranging from 10% to 12. 5% on goods from 60 trading partners, including the UK, China, and the European Union, affecting nearly all American imports. These levies replace an earlier identical tariff system that expired, with the White House justifying the action based on claims that trading partners have failed to adequately address forced labor practices.

Who is affected

60 US trading partners including the UK, China, the European Union, Brazil, Japan, and Australia
US businesses and consumers who will face increased costs
UK businesses (particularly those outside the whisky industry, which received an exemption)
European Union businesses (which secured a more favorable 10% all-inclusive deal)
Workers involved in global supply chains

What action is being taken

The US is imposing new tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on goods from 60 trading partners
Countries that have committed to enforcing forced labor bans face a 10% tariff rate
Countries that have not made such commitments face a 12.5% tariff rate
Trading partners are focusing on reducing their dependence on the US by making deals with other countries

Why it matters

This represents a significant escalation in the global trade war that could reshape international commerce patterns. The tariffs will likely raise costs throughout supply chains, affecting both businesses and consumers with higher prices. The move demonstrates the US administration's willingness to use legal justifications (forced labor concerns) to pursue broader economic goals of reducing trade deficits and promoting domestic manufacturing. Additionally, it creates competitive imbalances between trading partners, with some countries like the EU securing more favorable terms than others like the UK, potentially altering long-term trade relationships and encouraging nations to diversify away from US market dependence.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC