President Donald Trump has announced a series of forthcoming tariff letters aimed at at least seven countries, as part of his ongoing strategy to pressure global trade partners into negotiations. During a statement on August 1, 2025, Trump emphasized that no extensions would be granted beyond this deadline, intensifying uncertainty in the global economy.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump indicated that “a minimum of seven” tariff notices would be dispatched on Wednesday morning, with additional letters expected to follow in the afternoon. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed to CNBC that between 15 and 20 letters would be sent over the next two days, marking the administration’s latest move in its trade negotiations.
The White House previously issued tariff letters to 14 countries, including Japan, South Korea, and South Africa, with rates predominantly aligning with those announced in April. This announcement follows Trump’s executive order that shifted the implementation date from July 9 to August 1, allowing a brief window for negotiations.
Trump’s recent comments indicate a firmer stance, stating, “All money will be due and payable starting AUGUST 1, 2025 – No extensions will be granted.” This marked a notable change from his previous remarks, which suggested some flexibility regarding the deadline.
The international reaction to the renewed tariff announcements has so far been measured, contrasting sharply with the market upheaval that followed Trump’s initial tariff declarations on April 2. At that time, he had introduced “reciprocal” tariffs targeting numerous trading partners and allowed a 90-day negotiation period. To date, only the United Kingdom and Vietnam have managed to reach framework agreements with the United States, while China has secured a temporary trade truce lasting until August 12.
Focus on the BRICS Group
At a cabinet meeting, Trump revealed plans to impose a 10% tariff on imports from the BRICS nations, which include Brazil, Russia, India, and China. He stated, “If they’re a member of BRICS, they are going to have to pay a 10% tariff, just for that one thing – and they won’t be a member long.”
The president justified this tariff threat by asserting that it is crucial to protect the dominance of the US dollar. In 2023, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva suggested the establishment of a BRICS currency, although this proposal has not gained traction since then. Trump remarked, “BRICS was set up to hurt us… losing our dollar’s status would be as damaging as losing a war.”
The BRICS group, originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, with Saudi Arabia’s membership status still unclear.
Upcoming EU Tariff Notifications
During his cabinet meeting, Trump also announced plans to send a letter to the European Union regarding tariffs set to take effect from August 1, despite ongoing trade discussions with the bloc. “We’re probably two days off from sending them a letter,” he said. He added that a letter signifies a potential deal.
While Trump acknowledged that the EU is currently engaging positively with the US, he expressed dissatisfaction regarding legal actions against American tech companies initiated by the bloc. In response, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, stated on social media that the EU is “working closely” with the Trump Administration in “good faith” to reach an agreement.
As the situation develops, the international community will closely monitor the implications of these tariffs for global trade relations, particularly as the deadline approaches.
