US President Trump has announced tariffs on various countries, citing an "emergency" related to drug flow, with rates ranging from 10% for the UK and Brazil to 49% for Cambodia and 44% for Sri Lanka. The tariffs will significantly impact electronics prices in the US, as well as goods produced domestically that rely on international parts. A data analytics firm estimates the annual cost at $600 billion, with notable increases for China ($149 billion), Vietnam ($63 billion), Taiwan ($37 billion), and Japan ($36 billion). Additional countries not included in Trump's initial chart include New Zealand, Saudi Arabia (10%), Laos (48%), Madagascar (47%), Botswana (37%), and the Heard and McDonald Islands (10%).
https://gizmodo.com/trumps-tariffs-are-here-to-jack-up-the-price-of-your-switch-2-and-everything-else-2000584267The US has predicted a lower rate of trade deficit with South Korea, estimating it at 20% or lower, citing fewer tariff differences and non-tariff barriers compared to other surplus countries. The White House recently released a list of countries subject to higher reciprocal tariffs, placing South Korea 7th. However, President Trump claimed that South Korea imposes a 50% tariff on US goods.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-04-03/business/economy/More-aggressive-than-expected-Trumps-25-reciprocal-tariffs-against-Korea-/2276654Bursa Malaysia's benchmark index dropped 0.52% in early trade on April 3, following US President Donald Trump's announcement of tariffs on all countries starting April 5, with individualized reciprocal tariffs for certain countries set to begin on April 9. The impact will be particularly significant for Asean countries, including Malaysia, which faces a 24% reciprocal tariff, compared to Cambodia's 49%.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/money/2025/04/03/bursa-malaysia-slips-in-early-trade-as-trumps-tariff-shockwaves-hit-markets/171722US President Trump has threatened to no longer defend European countries that fail to meet their defense spending commitments, which he believes should be at least 5% of their GDP. This demand is particularly challenging for Italy and Spain, which currently spend less than 2% of their GDP. The NATO summit in June's Hague will likely see a response from these countries as diplomats acknowledge the need for increased spending, with Secretary-General Mark Rutte suggesting an average of 3.5-3.7% of GDP for allies.
https://www.fakti.bg/en/mnenia/961265-nato-gripped-by-doubts-about-its-future-in-the-face-of-the-trump-stormVietnam's efforts to maintain a positive relationship with the US, led by President Trump, have likely prevented severe tariffs on imports from the country. The country has taken steps such as promising more US imports and lower duties, allowing Elon Musk's Starlink to operate in Vietnam. This approach is seen as a strategic move by Vietnamese leaders, who have demonstrated their ability to navigate geopolitical games. According to Wilbur Ross, former US commerce secretary, Trump has good ties with Vietnam, making it unlikely that tariffs would be imposed on the country.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1297321-us-tariffs-on-vietnam-would-be-a-blow-to-nike-and-other-sportswear-brandsAsian stocks fell on Wednesday due to concerns over US President Donald Trump's upcoming tariff plans, which investors fear could trigger a global trade war. The Dow finished lower, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended higher after an early decline. China's blue-chip index rose 0.14%, but Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.3%. Investors are worried about the impact of tariffs on supply chains and the labour market, with US job openings falling in February due to tariff uncertainty. The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note slid to its lowest level since March 4, while gold prices remained near record highs at $3,132.43 per ounce.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40355632/stocks-on-tenterhooks-as-trumps-tariff-plans-loomPresident Donald Trump is set to announce "Liberation Day" tariffs on Wednesday, which could reshape the economy. The new tariffs are aimed at boosting US manufacturing and punishing countries for unfair trade practices. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described April 2 as a historic day, while economists warn that the move may plunge the economy into a downturn.
https://www.boston25news.com/news/local/trump-set-announce-liberation-day-tariffs-move-that-could-reshape-economy/ZPLFRMB7NBDMVBSX7VZGEBSYWQ/Austal's shares surged 35% in the three months ending March, their best quarterly gains in nearly two years, as US President Donald Trump's policies benefiting Australian shipbuilder Austal. The company's order book grew to a record A$14.2 billion by 2024-end, driven by increased defence spending and concerns over China's aggression in the region. Austal's US-based shipyards insulate it from potential import tariffs, making it more attractive to investors. South Korean conglomerate Hanwha recently acquired a 9.9% stake in Austal, highlighting foreign interest in the company.
https://www.marinelink.com/news/austal-benefiting-trump-policies-524145Research by Bertelsmann Stiftung found that enthusiasm for deeper European defense cooperation has decreased significantly in Spain and France between early 2022 and late 2024, with support dropping from 92% to 83% in Spain and 87% to 71% in France. A survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations also revealed that majorities in France and Italy oppose increased defense spending if it comes at the expense of healthcare and education. The shift in global dynamics following US President Donald Trump's return has led Europe to reassess its security needs, potentially leading citizens to prioritize rearmament without American assurances.
https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-sacrifices-citizens-ukraine-far-right-russia-populist/