Trump Tariffs Push U.S. Import Taxes to Historic Levels Amid Economic Strain

Trump tariffs 2025 are now the highest in nearly a century, as President Donald Trump enacts sweeping trade policies targeting more than 60 countries. Starting Thursday, Americans will pay an average of 18.3% more on imported goods, the highest rate since 1934.

Among the most controversial moves is a 100% tariff on imported computer chips, a sector critical to digital infrastructure. Trump said U.S.-based chipmakers will be exempt, a move that could disrupt global tech markets and drive up consumer prices on electronics, autos, and appliances.

Stock Markets Show Mixed Reactions

Despite the aggressive trade shift, global stock markets remained mostly stable. Germany’s DAX rose 0.9%, France’s CAC 40 climbed 0.8%, and the S&P 500 futures added 0.5%. However, Britain’s FTSE 100 slipped 0.3%. In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.7%, suggesting limited short-term panic.

Still, investors are watching for long-term ripple effects as major global exporters adjust to the new tariff regime.

Countries and Products Hit Hardest

More than 60 countries now face tariff rates of 10% or higher. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • EU, Japan, South Korea: 15%

  • Taiwan, Vietnam, Bangladesh: 20%

  • India: Now faces 50% tariffs after a new 25% penalty for importing Russian oil

Trump has also linked tariffs to political disputes. Brazil’s 50% rate is tied to former President Jair Bolsonaro’s legal issues. Canada faces a 35% tariff for what Trump called failure to curb cross-border crime and drug trafficking.

Intel Stock Plunges After Trump Demands CEO Resignation

Intel shares fell sharply after Trump demanded the resignation of CEO Lip-Bu Tan, citing alleged ties to Chinese military-linked tech firms. The call followed a letter from Sen. Tom Cotton expressing national security concerns.

Modest Jobless Claims Rise Amid Trade Turmoil

The Labor Department reported 226,000 new jobless claims last week, up slightly from forecasts. While the four-week average fell to 220,750, total benefit recipients hit 1.97 million, the highest since late 2021. The report follows Trump’s firing of the official responsible for jobs data, raising questions about transparency.

Trump, Putin, and Ukraine Diplomacy

In a separate development, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a direct meeting with Trump in the UAE next week, excluding Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from talks. The White House had suggested including Kyiv, but Moscow rejected the idea. Zelenskyy is rallying European allies and pushing for broader participation.

Key Takeaways on Trump Tariffs 2025

  • Import taxes now average 18.3%, the highest since the Great Depression.

  • Chip imports face a 100% tariff, sparking fears of price hikes.

  • More than 60 countries hit, including allies like Canada, India, and Brazil.

  • Stock markets stable, but Intel stock fell after Trump attacked its CEO.

  • Jobless claims up, signaling potential economic headwinds.

As the global economy braces for a new era of protectionism, the Trump tariffs 2025 could reshape trade, manufacturing, and diplomacy for years to come.

SOURCE: AP News