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US President Donald Trump has unveiled a broad set of new tariffs targeting six Arab nations, with Syria bearing the brunt of the increases. Announced late Thursday, the measures form part of Trump’s campaign to “rebalance” the United States’ trade relationships.
A detailed executive order released by the White House outlines Syria as facing the highest levy at 41 per cent. Iraq follows with a 35 per cent rate, while Libya and Algeria will be subjected to 30 per cent. Tunisia is set for a 25 per cent tariff, and Jordan faces a 15 per cent charge.
Trump took to his Truth Social platform to justify the move, claiming: “Tariffs are making America GREAT & RICH Again.” In an interview with NBC News, he stated the implementation process was progressing “very well, very smoothly,” and confirmed that the new tariffs would remain in effect.
Beyond the Arab world, the order includes significant tariff hikes on a range of countries. Switzerland will be hit with a 39 per cent duty, South Africa 30 per cent, Brazil 50 per cent, Taiwan 20 per cent, and Turkiye 15 per cent. A default tariff of 10 per cent will apply to nations not explicitly named. These changes are scheduled to be enforced from August 7.
The sweeping tariff regime, which the White House has described as a push towards “reciprocity and fairness,” imposes duties ranging from 10 per cent to 41 per cent. Trump has consistently argued that such policies are tied to national security and will help restore wealth and manufacturing jobs to the US.
However, the swift introduction of the tariffs has triggered unease in global markets. Economists have warned of potential supply chain disruptions and a possible surge in inflation. Middle Eastern economies, already grappling with high joblessness and slow economic growth, are predicted to suffer some of the most significant consequences from these new levies.
