Trump Announces 30% Tariffs on Mexico and EU Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

WASHINGTON, July 12 — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs of 30% on goods from Mexico and the European Union (EU), further escalating trade tensions with key American partners. The tariffs are scheduled to take effect on August 1.

In separate letters posted to his Truth Social platform, Trump cited Mexico’s role in the flow of illicit drugs into the United States and ongoing trade imbalances with the EU as the rationale behind the tariff hikes.

“These new tariffs are necessary to protect American workers and restore fairness to our trade system,” Trump stated, emphasizing that the current trade relationships are “deeply unfair and unsustainable.”

The new duties mark a significant increase from previous tariffs, including a 25% levy imposed earlier this year on Mexican goods. However, products covered under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will remain exempt, offering limited relief to select sectors.

Canada has also been targeted, with Ottawa receiving a similar notice earlier this week outlining a 35% tariff on Canadian exports to the U.S.

In the case of the EU, the announced 30% tariff represents a sharp jump from the 20% levy introduced in April. While initial increases were set to take effect on July 10, Trump postponed the enforcement date to August 1, providing a narrow window for further negotiations.

Over the past week, Trump has issued updated tariff notices to more than 20 countries, signaling a widespread recalibration of his trade agenda as he intensifies pressure on foreign governments to renegotiate terms more favorable to the U.S.

The announcement has drawn swift criticism from economists and industry leaders, who warn that such aggressive tariff hikes could disrupt global supply chains, raise consumer prices, and strain diplomatic As the August 1 deadline looms, both Mexico and the EU are expected to respond, with trade talks likely to heat up in the coming weeks.