Tariffs are paying off big for the US, but now South Korea and Japan are about to feel the pinch. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says the new import duties will be enforced starting August 1.

Donald Trump’s trade policies have become a cash cow for America. Just last week, reports confirmed that tariffs netted the US €75.8 billion, a sum the president now touts as vindication. Even after a partial deal with China to reduce rates, Trump’s administration is charging ahead with a brand new round of duties—this time squarely aimed at Japan and South Korea.

According to The Verge, starting August 1, a flat 25% tariff will be slapped on all goods imported from both countries. It’s part of a wider US push to pressure nations into trade deals or risk exclusion. South Korea was recently thrust into the spotlight for its position on China sanctions, and after an initial postponement back in April, Trump’s team is now adamant: there will be no further delays.

Warning Letters: Washington Raises the Stakes

Despite speculation that the new tariffs might be pushed back yet again, US officials have reportedly sent formal warnings to Seoul and Tokyo, making clear that the move is about narrowing the trade deficit. Treasury Secretary Bessent doubled down in his statement: August 1 isn’t a new deadline—it’s when the tariffs kick in for real. He dismissed suggestions of further postponement, saying there’s no intention to give more time. Both countries can dodge these penalties if they agree to manufacture their products stateside, but Trump also threatened even tougher action if there’s any retaliation.

America’s tough stance has already forced concessions: new deals have been struck with the UK, Vietnam, and China, while Canada caved on tech taxes after threats from Trump’s administration. It’s all part of the “liberation tariffs” playbook—the US is pressing nations to accept its conditions or face economic sanctions, plain and simple.

Source: 3djuegos