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Washington D.C.- New tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump on a range of imported goods went into effect August 1, 2025, impacting industries from pharmaceuticals to semiconductors. The move, enacted via executive order, represents a continuation of Trump’s “America First” trade policies and has sparked immediate concerns about potential economic repercussions.
The tariffs, initially announced in July 2025, include a 15% duty on pharmaceutical imports from countries without existing trade agreements with the United States. This action was reportedly a preemptive measure to counter potential retaliatory tariffs from the European Union, which had been considering its own levies on U.S. products. The EU negotiated the 15% tax on pharma exports to the US as part of a broader agreement with the Trump administration, aiming to mitigate the impact of broader U.S. tariffs. Other nations with trade agreements, such as Australia and Japan, are receiving more favorable tariff rates on specific sectors.
A partial exemption exists for goods manufactured abroad, but only if at least 20% of their value originates from American materials and labor. This provision is intended to incentivize companies to increase domestic sourcing and production. The Department of commerce is responsible for verifying compliance with this “American content” requirement.
While the tariffs are now active, a temporary grace period applies to goods already in transit. According to the executive order signed August 1st, shipments loaded onto vessels and en route to the U.S. before 12:01 am EDT on August 1st will be subject to the previous tariff rates until October 5, 2025. This measure aims to minimize immediate disruption to supply chains.
Beyond pharmaceuticals, Trump has also threatened tariffs on semiconductors and lumber. During an August 6, 2025, event at the White house, he specifically mentioned a proposed 100% tariff on chips and semiconductors, citing national security concerns and the need to bolster domestic manufacturing. Apple, a major consumer of semiconductors, has been specifically mentioned as a company possibly impacted by this measure, and is reportedly considering increased investment in U.S.-based chip production.
The legality of the newly enacted tariffs is already being challenged. A lawsuit filed by the Coalition of American Importers and Manufacturers on
