U.S. President Donald Trump has doubled down on his August 1 deadline for countries to pay new "reciprocal" tariffs, declaring no extensions will be granted. The move has sent shockwaves through global markets as nations scramble to renegotiate trade terms. 🌍⚖️
📅 Deadline Drama Unfolds
Trump confirmed via Truth Social that tariffs ranging from 25% to 40% on 14 countries—including South Africa, Malaysia, and Thailand—will take effect as planned. "All money will be due and payable starting AUGUST 1, 2025," he wrote, comparing the deadline to a "final boss level" in trade negotiations. 🎮💼
🌏 Global Reactions Heat Up
Japan’s negotiator Ryosei Akazawa called the deadline "disappointing," while South Korea vowed to "step up talks" to address U.S. trade deficit concerns. The EU—America’s largest trade partner—is racing to finalize a deal within days. Trump teased: "We’re probably two days off from sending them a letter. A letter means a deal." ✉️🤝
✅ Deals in the Bag
So far, the U.S. has secured agreements with the UK, Vietnam, and a framework with China. But with the clock ticking, other nations face a high-stakes game of economic diplomacy. Will they level up before time runs out? ⏳🌐
