Trump Expands Tariffs to Allies, Raises Global Tensions

President Donald Trump has enacted sweeping tariffs of 15% to 20% on imports from most countries, affecting key U.S. allies like Australia and Japan, unless they negotiate favorable trade agreements. Recent deals with the European Union and Japan have resulted in lower tariffs and commitments to increase U.S. exports and investments. Tariffs of 19-20% now apply to Vietnam and Indonesia, with even higher rates for goods transshipped from China, amid heightened scrutiny of 'rules of origin.' Critics warn the policy may disrupt global supply chains, raise consumer costs, and use trade as leverage in unrelated geopolitical disputes, as seen in talks with Thailand. The administration claims the tariffs will boost U.S. manufacturing, though experts argue their macroeconomic impact is limited. The effective U.S. tariff rate has reached its highest point since the 1930s, fueling uncertainty and political tensions worldwide.