Trump’s Tariff Threats Roil Global Trade

Canada, Brazil, and over 20 nations face potential import tax hikes starting August 1.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is escalating trade tensions by threatening increased tariffs on numerous countries if they don’t agree to new deals. These potential taxes, outlined in letters sent this week, are slated to take effect August 1, creating uncertainty in international commerce.

Canada Faces Significant Tariff Hike

While Canada did not receive a letter in April, it already confronts tariffs on steel and aluminum. Now, Trump has declared that a 35% tariff will be imposed on Canadian goods beginning August 1, potentially straining the relationship between the two nations.

Brazil Threatened with 50% Tariff

Brazil is facing a steep 50% tariff starting August 1. Unusually, Brazil had not been previously warned about these elevated “reciprocal” rates. However, like almost every other country, Brazil has already dealt with at least a 10% levy on goods entering the U.S. since April.

In response, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva warned that Trump’s tariffs would trigger Brazil’s economic reciprocity law, allowing the suspension of agreements against countries harming its competitiveness, while noting the U.S. has held a trade surplus of over $410 billion with Brazil over the past 15 years.

Responses from Other Nations

Several other nations have also received tariff letters, and here’s how they are reacting:

Myanmar

Tariff rate: 40% starting August 1, down from 44% in April. A spokesperson for Myanmar’s military government, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, stated they would pursue negotiations.

Cambodia

Tariff rate: 36% starting August 1, reduced from 49% in April. Negotiator Sun Chanthol highlighted the successful decrease in the tariff and expressed readiness for further talks, urging garment workers and factory owners not to panic.

Thailand

Tariff rate: 36% starting August 1, unchanged from April. Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said Thailand is pushing for negotiations, proposing to open the Thai market for more American agricultural and industrial products, and increasing imports of energy and aircraft.

Bangladesh

Tariff rate: 35% starting August 1, down from 37% in April. Finance adviser Salehuddin Ahmed expressed hope for a better outcome through negotiation, noting concerns about competitiveness with Vietnam and India.

Japan

Tariff rate: 25% starting August 1, increased from 24% in April. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called the tariff “extremely regrettable” but remains determined to continue negotiating.

South Korea

Tariff rate: 25% starting August 1, the same as announced in April. The Trade Ministry announced plans to accelerate negotiations to reach a deal before the tariffs take effect.

List of Affected Nations & Rates

Here’s a quick look at other countries facing tariffs:

• Laos: 40% (down from 48%)
• Serbia: 35% (down from 37%)
• Indonesia: 32% (unchanged)
• Algeria: 30% (unchanged)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: 30% (down from 35%)
• Iraq: 30% (down from 39%)
• Libya: 30% (down from 31%)
• South Africa: 30% (unchanged); President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office stated that the tariff rates mischaracterized the trade relationship and proposed a trade framework on May 20.
• Sri Lanka: 30% (down from 44%)
• Brunei: 25% (up from 24%)
• Moldova: 25% (down from 31%)
• Kazakhstan: 25% (down from 27%)
• Malaysia: 25% (up from 24%); the government plans talks with the U.S.
• Tunisia: 25% (down from 28%)
• Philippines: 20% (down from 17%)

The Peterson Institute for International Economics estimates that these tariffs could disrupt global supply chains, potentially raising consumer prices (PIIE 2024).

These tariff threats signal a possible shift in U.S. trade strategy, one that could reshape international commerce. It remains to be seen whether these tactics will lead to new trade agreements or further escalate global trade tensions.

G7 Agrees to US Tax Exemption in Global Accord

The Group of Seven nations have sanctioned a proposal allowing the United States to sidestep certain elements of a global tax agreement. This decision reflects a significant shift in international tax policy, affecting businesses and potentially altering the global economic landscape.

The Deal’s Details

The G7 has formulated a “side-by-side” system. This action came after the U.S. administration decided to eliminate the Section 899 retaliatory tax proposition, as per a statement from the current G7 presidency, held by Canada.

The G7 emphasizes that their plan acknowledges pre-existing U.S. minimum tax laws. It seeks to stabilize the international tax system as well.

“Today’s agreement provides much-needed certainty and stability for those businesses after they had raised their concerns,”

—Rachel Reeves, Britain’s finance minister

Currently, the global minimum corporate tax rate is 15%, designed to deter tax avoidance. Experts suggest tax avoidance costs governments worldwide hundreds of billions of dollars annually (International Monetary Fund 2023).

Complex Origins

The U.K. businesses will also see relief from potential tax increases because of Section 899’s removal from the tax and spending bill. Following the agreement, the U.K. declared that businesses would gain from increased stability and certainty. Some U.K. businesses had voiced concerns in recent weeks about owing substantial additional taxes due to Section 899’s inclusion, which has now been removed.

G7 officials are hoping to address a resolution that is “acceptable and implementable to all.”

In January, Donald Trump, through an executive order, stated that the global corporate minimum tax deal was not valid in the U.S. This action withdrew the nation from a 2021 agreement brokered by the Biden administration. He also threatened retaliatory taxes against countries imposing taxes on U.S. firms.

This tax was seen as damaging to numerous foreign firms operating in the U.S.

Canada Eyes Military Equipment Deal with Ukraine

As war rages in Eastern Europe, Ottawa is actively considering a defense co-production agreement with Ukraine. This potential deal would follow the lead of several European allies. The initiative signifies Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

Co-Production Plans Under Consideration

David McGuinty, the Minister of Defence, disclosed that the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces are keenly evaluating the proposition. They are studying the approaches of Denmark and France as possible models. The goal is to determine the optimal approach for this partnership.

Ukraine has demonstrated significant advancements in drone technology throughout the conflict. McGuinty mentioned, “The Ukrainians have made huge strides and advances in drone technology, something that we’re actively looking at.”

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“There may very well be some interesting industrial benefits which would directly accrue to Canadian companies. That’s exactly what we’re looking at, to see what the best mechanism is.”

—David McGuinty, Defence Minister

According to recent reports, global military spending reached a record high in 2023, driven by the war in Ukraine and rising geopolitical tensions (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute).

Strategic Partnerships and Industrial Benefits

The initiative could bring industrial benefits to Canadian businesses. Federal officials are looking at options, including financing domestic Ukrainian weapons production. Alternatively, they could opt for building equipment either in Canada or within Ukraine.

Keir Starmer, the U.K. Prime Minister, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently declared a new agreement. This collaboration aims to enhance Ukrainian drone production. It will also funnel technical data into the U.K.’s defense sector.

Mark Carney, and David McGuinty met with industry leaders to discuss Canada’s defense industrial strategy.

As Canada navigates its defense commitments, the potential co-production deal with Ukraine signifies a significant step. This could boost Canadian industrial capabilities and bolster Ukraine’s defenses.

Heat Wave Sizzles Ontario and quebec,Leaving Thousands Without Power

A sweltering heat wave gripped Ontario and Quebec,Canada,on Tuesday,June 24,2025,delivering record-breaking temperatures and leaving tens of thousands without power due to severe thunderstorms [1]. Hydro crews are working to restore power as residents grapple with the extreme heat and humidity.

Record Temperatures and Humidity plague Eastern Canada

Across southern Ontario and Quebec, temperatures soared into the low to mid 30s Celsius (high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit).The humidity pushed the feels-like temperature into the low 40s Celsius (over 100 Fahrenheit). Toronto, ottawa, and Montreal all set new daily temperature records for June 23, 2025 [2].

Did You Know? The highest temperature ever recorded in Canada was 49.6°C (121.3°F) in Lytton, British columbia, on June 29, 2021 [3].

Power Outages add to Residents’ Woes

Severe thunderstorms, triggered by the edges of the high-pressure system, caused widespread power outages. In Quebec, just under 32,000 Hydro-Québec customers were without power as of Tuesday afternoon, down from a peak of approximately 125,000. In Ontario, Hydro One reported over 4,000 customers without power, adding to those still waiting for restoration from weekend storms [4].

The combination of extreme heat and power outages creates a dangerous situation,limiting access to air conditioning and refuge from the heat.

Heat Wave Expected to Ease, But More Heat on the Horizon

While the intense heat was expected to subside by Tuesday evening, daytime temperatures are forecast to remain in the high 20s Celsius (low 80s Fahrenheit) throughout the week, with continued humidity. Sadly, more 30-degree Celsius (86 fahrenheit) days are predicted to return by Friday for parts of southwestern Ontario.

Pro Tip: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

Health Concerns Rise Amidst Extreme Heat

Forecasters warn that extreme heat early in the season can be notably dangerous as people are not yet acclimatized to the high temperatures and humidex values. Temperatures are approximately 10 degrees Celsius (18 Fahrenheit) warmer than normal for this time of year.

Climate Change and Heat Waves

Studies suggest that climate change, driven by the burning of fossil fuels, is increasing the frequency, length, and intensity of heat waves in Canada [5].

Infrastructure Impacted by Heat

Toronto’s transit agency implemented speed reduction measures on above-ground subway lines to prevent heat-related track issues. Some overhead wire problems were reported on the streetcar network due to the excessive heat, but disruptions were temporary.

What steps are you taking to stay cool during this heat wave? How do you think cities should prepare for increasingly frequent extreme weather events?

Disclaimer: This article provides general facts and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

Share this article to help others stay informed and prepared during extreme weather events!

Trump’s Bombing of Iran Nuclear Sites Sparks Global Condemnation, Fears of Escalation

Following a U.S. attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, allies across the globe are expressing concern, as the situation in the Middle East becomes increasingly volatile. World leaders are urging de-escalation and diplomacy to prevent a wider conflict.

International Reactions to the Strikes

European nations are largely disapproving of the U.S. bombings of Iran’s nuclear sites. While acknowledging the attacks, they’re calling for diplomatic solutions.

France has taken note with concern of the strikes carried out last night by the United States. We urge the parties to exercise restraint to avoid any escalation likely to lead to an extension of the conflict.

France has repeatedly expressed its very firm opposition to Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

— Jean-Noël Barrot (@jnbarrot) May 15, 2024

Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, stated, “Iran’s nuclear program is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, and the U.S. has taken action to alleviate that threat.”

The global defense spending reached $2.44 trillion in 2023, showcasing the high stakes involved in international conflicts (SIPRI Report).

Differing Views from Key Players

Donald Trump, the former U.S. President, has characterized the strikes as very successful and warned Iran of more attacks if they retaliate. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, has praised the U.S. action.

António Costa, the European Council head, expressed deep alarm, stating, Diplomacy remains the only way to bring peace and security to the Middle East region. Too many civilians will once again be the victims of a further escalation.

The Australian government has also voiced a call for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy.