• Trump plans over 10% tariffs on more than 100 countries, primarily in Africa and the Caribbean.
• Commerce Secretary indicates significant trade relations are unlikely to be impacted due to low export volumes.
• Potential tariffs on pharmaceuticals and computer chips expected later this month.
• Concerns arise from developing economies facing steep tariff increases, especially during consultation periods.
• WTO urges reconsideration of these tariffs to protect vulnerable economies.

President Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs of over 10% on imports from smaller nations, specifically targeting countries in Africa and the Caribbean. He stated, “We’ll probably set one tariff for all of them,” indicating the uniform approach to these tariffs would apply to more than 100 nations, as confirmed by multiple reports from SCMP, India Times, and The Hill.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick further elaborated that these tariffs are aimed at nations with relatively low trade volumes with the United States, minimizing the overall impact on domestic trade balance, as noted in reports from both India Times and Africa News. While the announcement has raised concerns among affected countries, the tariff implementation is set to begin on August 1, following prior notifications.

In addition to these tariffs, Trump hinted at upcoming duties targeting the pharmaceutical and computer chip sectors, aiming to start at lower rates to allow businesses time to adjust. This strategy was detailed in statements by Trump as well as further analysis from Africa News and The Hill. The strategy has elicited criticism, prompting responses from international bodies like the WTO, calling for exemptions to safeguard developing economies reliant on exports.