Trump Announces 30% Tariffs on EU and Mexico After Trade Talks Fail

President Donald Trump on Saturday announced sweeping new tariffs on imports from the European Union and Mexico, marking a major escalation in his renewed global trade offensive. The 30% tariffs will take effect on August 1, following stalled negotiations with both economic blocs.

The decision was made public through official letters released on Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, and comes just days after similar trade measures were directed at Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Brazil. Earlier this week, the Trump administration also unveiled a steep 50% tariff on copper.

The European Union had spent months attempting to secure a broad-based trade agreement with the U.S., one that would ideally eliminate tariffs on industrial goods across both sides. But those hopes unraveled amid mounting tensions and limited progress, prompting EU officials to brace for unilateral action from Washington.

European leaders are now split on how to respond. Germany, the EU’s largest exporter, has pushed for a quick deal to protect its manufacturing base, while France and several other member states have voiced concerns over appearing to concede to Washington’s hardline demands.

The imposition of the new tariffs adds significant pressure to the EU, the U.S.’s largest trade and investment partner. Talks had initially aimed for a comprehensive deal, but with the window closing, officials say they may be forced to settle for a temporary framework in hopes of a more favorable negotiation later.

Meanwhile, the financial impact of Trump’s tariff wave is already visible in U.S. government data. According to the Treasury Department, customs revenue surged past $100 billion for the current fiscal year through June, fueled by new levies on imported goods.

The August 1 tariffs will cover a broad range of products, though details on the specific goods impacted have yet to be disclosed. The White House says further announcements will follow next week.

The expanded use of trade barriers signals that Trump is doubling down on his economic nationalism playbook — a strategy that could have far-reaching effects on global markets, supply chains, and diplomatic relations.

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