In a bold escalation of his “America First” trade doctrine, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the first round of updated tariff letters will be officially dispatched today at 12:00 PM Eastern Time (9:30 PM IST). These new letters outline sweeping reciprocal trade changes and fresh import duties that will take effect starting August 1.
Speaking through his platform, Truth Social, Trump said, “I am pleased to announce that the UNITED STATES TARIFF Letters, and/or Deals, with various Countries from around the World, will be delivered starting 12:00 P.M. (Eastern), Monday, July 7th.”
But what’s making global headlines is Trump’s sharp warning to countries “aligning themselves with the anti-American policies of BRICS”—referring to the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The President declared an additional 10% tariff on imports from any country “publicly supporting BRICS-led trade alternatives or undermining U.S. market integrity.”
This aggressive move comes amid an already tense global economic climate. BRICS leaders recently slammed Washington’s trade policies, calling U.S. tariffs “illegal and arbitrary,” accusing the administration of weaponizing commerce.
Meanwhile, Washington’s negotiations with India hang in delicate balance. According to sources quoted by CNBC-TV18, a mini trade deal between India and the U.S. is nearly finalized and may be wrapped up within 24 to 48 hours. The deal is expected to include reduced tariffs for Indian textiles and leather goods, while India may lower import duties on U.S. agricultural exports like pecan nuts and blueberries.
India, however, remains cautious. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reiterated that New Delhi won’t be pressured into agreements that compromise sovereignty. “National interest comes first. We do not negotiate under threat,” Goyal stated during a press briefing on Sunday evening.
Despite April’s announcement of a 26% retaliatory tariff on U.S. goods, India has temporarily suspended its implementation. Trump’s 10% tariff, however, remains firmly in place—heightening diplomatic stakes just days before the tentative deal deadline.
