President Donald Trump announced this Monday that the United States will impose 25% tariffs on imported products from South Korea and Japan starting August 1, 2025. This decision is part of a series of trade measures that seek to establish what he has called "reciprocal tariffs," also affecting twelve other countries who face even higher tariffs.

Through posts on his Truth Social network, Trump released two letters addressed to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. In them, he announced that the tariffs will take effect on August 1, reversing the tariff freeze that was set to expire on July 9.

“In other words, all money will be due and payable beginning August 1, 2025. No extensions will be granted,” Trump wrote.

The new tariffs are not limited to Asia. The tariff package the president unveiled also includes African countries. Here are the nations involved and the tariffs his administration will implement:

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump will sign an executive order to extend the current tariff suspension until August 1. This will allow time to formalize the new levies in letters that, according to Leavitt, will be published on Truth Social and sent to approximately 12 more countries in the coming days.

International trade experts warn that these measures could have significant consequences. Barry Appleton, co-director of the Center for International Law at New York Law School, told CBS MoneyWatch that the new tariffs represent a considerable barrier.

“At a rate of 25%, it is possible, but challenging, to trade with Japan and Korea. This tariff was deliberately set at the high end of the spectrum,” Appleton explained. “In essence, trading with the U.S. is now a ‘pay-to-play’ proposition for Japan, Korea, and likely others.”

The increase in tariffs could also affect the global economy. Paul Ashworth, chief North American economist at Capital Economics,He noted that without preliminary trade agreements, the effective U.S. tariff rate would rise from 15.5 percent to 17.3 percent, up from 2.5 percent in 2024. Despite warnings from economists and financial analysts, Trump administration officials say the measures will help ensure fair competition in global trade and strengthen U.S. manufacturing. Trump also made clear that the letters sent to international leaders include an optimistic message. In each, he repeats that the notification “demonstrates the strength and commitment of our trade relationship,” and that the U.S. invites affected countries to “participate in America’s extraordinary economy.” You may also be interested in: