In a dramatic policy pivot, the Trump administration has introduced a sweeping new trade framework that marks a decisive shift away from decades of free trade that will affect nearly every trading partner.

 

Under a new executive order, the United States will impose steep import duties on a wide range of countries: 35% on Canadian goods, 50% on imports from Brazil, 25% for India, 20% for Taiwan, and 39% for Switzerland.

 

A 10% tariff will continue to apply to countries with which the US maintains a trade surplus — representing the majority. For countries running a trade deficit with Washington, a minimum tariff of 15% will be enforced. Talks with China and Mexico remain ongoing.

 

Products covered under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be exempt from the higher rates, the White House clarified, potentially softening the broader impact.

 

Experts warn the tariff overhaul could trigger significant disruptions for businesses. Caroline Freund, dean of the School of Global Policy and Strategy at UC San Diego, told CNN that companies may struggle with the added complexity.

 

“A big part of the cost is going to come from the administrative burden,” Freund said, noting that the uncertainty could ripple through the global economy.

 

The order outlines new duties ranging from 10% to 41% on goods from 69 nations, taking effect within seven days. While some countries had secured tariff-reduction deals, others were left without a chance to negotiate. Certain shipments already in transit will be temporarily exempt.

 

Imports from countries not specifically named in the order will be subject to a blanket 10% tariff, though the administration has suggested that figure could increase.

 

Officials also hinted at further trade deals on the horizon, as part of a broader effort to curb trade deficits and strengthen US-based manufacturing.