Dozens more countries face higher taxes on exports to US as new Trump tariffs come into effect
GuardianAUG 8
Trump Higher Tariffs Take Effect on Dozens of Countries
Above: Containers stack at the Shanghai Port Container Terminal in Shanghai, China, on Aug. 7, 2025. Image copyright: Costfoto/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Trump is finally actioning a necessary correction to decades of unfair trade practices that have disadvantaged American workers and businesses. The "reciprocal" approach ensures trading partners face the same barriers they impose on U.S. exports, creating a level playing field that will boost domestic manufacturing and generate hundreds of billions in revenue for America.
Democratic narrative
These sweeping tariffs risk significant economic damage through heightened consumer prices, supply chain disruptions, and reduced economic efficiency that could fuel inflation and slow long-term growth. Small businesses will bear the brunt of these costs while their complex implementation creates uncertainty that undermines business planning and investment decisions.