Latest Trump Tariffs To Hammer Brazil and Copper
A second wave of Trump tariffs was announced on Wednesday, July 9, in a move set to reshape global supply chains. U.S. importers now face higher costs, with the steepest penalties targeting goods from Brazil and all copper imports. ASEAN-origin goods — already impacted by earlier measures — face new adjustments as well.
All new tariffs will take effect on August 1, 2025. This gives importers limited time to reassess their sourcing, routing, and compliance strategies.
Country-Level Tariff Changes: ASEAN and Beyond
ASEAN Countries in the Second Wave
The Philippines and Brunei were added to the list of affected nations:
- 🇵🇭 Philippines: Tariff increased to 20% (from 17%)
- 🇧🇳 Brunei: Tariff increased to 25% (from 24%)
ASEAN Countries in the First Wave
Affected ASEAN members from the first wave include:
- 🇲🇲 Myanmar
- 🇱🇦 Laos
- 🇰🇭 Cambodia
- 🇹🇭 Thailand
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
These countries saw a mix of increases, decreases, and flat rates compared to the April baseline.
Full Country Comparison Table
| Country | New Tariff (Aug 1) | April Rate | Change |
| First Batch (July 7) | |||
| Myanmar | 40% | 44% | −4% |
| Laos | 40% | 48% | −8% |
| Cambodia | 36% | 49% | −13% |
| Thailand | 36% | 36% | 0% |
| Serbia | 35% | 37% | −2% |
| Bangladesh | 35% | 37% | −2% |
| Indonesia | 32% | 32% | 0% |
| South Africa | 30% | 30% | 0% |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | 30% | 36% | −6% |
| Malaysia | 25% | 24% | +1% |
| Japan | 25% | 24% | +1% |
| South Korea | 25% | 25% | 0% |
| Kazakhstan | 25% | 27% | −2% |
| Tunisia | 25% | 28% | −3% |
| Second Batch (July 9) | |||
| Libya | 30% | 31% | −1% |
| Algeria | 30% | 30% | 0% |
| Iraq | 30% | 39% | −9% |
| Sri Lanka | 30% | 44% | −14% |
| Brunei | 25% | 24% | +1% |
| Moldova | 25% | 31% | −6% |
| Philippines | 20% | 17% | +3% |
Brazil Tariffs: 50% Blanket Rate
In its most striking move, the administration imposed a 50% blanket tariff on all goods from Brazil—a sharp increase from the 10% rate set in April. The administration said the tariff was tied to political unrest in Brazil. One reason was the trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro, which Trump condemned as a “witch hunt”. Trump also highlighted Brazil’s unlawful censorship orders that targeted U.S.-based platforms.
Furthermore, the administration has ordered a Section 301 investigation into Brazil’s trade practices. This move signals that additional penalties could follow.
Sectoral Tariffs: Copper Hit First
Copper – 50% Tariff via Section 232
The administration is placing a 50% tariff on all copper imports, calling it a matter of national security. The tariff stems from copper’s essential role in several key industries. These include defense manufacturing, semiconductors, and the electric vehicle sector.
ASEAN-origin copper, particularly from Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia, are directly affected. Importers will now be subjected to reclassification checks and compliance audits at ports of entry.
Pharmaceuticals & Semiconductors – Still in Planning
Trump also announced upcoming tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. Rates on pharmaceuticals could reach as high as 200%. However, manufacturers would be given a one-to-two-year adjustment period.
What Importers Should Do Before August 1
With the new Trump tariffs taking effect on August 1, 2025, importers have only a short window to evaluate and adjust their operations. Here’s what we recommend for companies importing from ASEAN or handling copper and related goods:
Audit Product Classifications (HS Codes)
The first priority is to conduct a thorough audit of your product classifications. Customs will start intensely scrutinizing items like copper, semiconductors, and pharmaceutical ingredients. Any misclassification — even if unintentional — could lead to backdated penalties or port delays.
Reassess Sourcing and Routing
Beyond classification, routing and sourcing strategies should be reevaluated. As seen in the trade deal announced with Vietnam, transshipped goods with foreign origins will now face a 40% tariff. If you rely on transshipment, you must verify your origin documentation and confirm your routing will not raise red flags with U.S. Customs. Expect officials to closely inspect origin certificates, factory documents, and bills of lading to ensure supply chain transparency.
Further Reading: US, Vietnam Reach Trade Deal
Rebudgeting
Financially, importers should rebudget to account for increased landed costs. Many items from ASEAN countries face tariff increases of 1% to 13%, while goods from Brazil face a steep 50% duty. Companies with fixed pricing agreements or tight margins may need to renegotiate contracts or build in buffers for Q3 shipments.
Avoid Last-Minute Shipments
This is not the time to take chances with last-minute freight bookings. Customs backlogs are likely in the days surrounding August 1. Misfiled declarations or delayed documents could lead to extended hold times.
Engage Freight Forwarders
A logistics partner that understands tariff-related port activity is crucial. They can save you money and ensure your supply chain continues to run smoothly.
Further Reading: How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder for USA–ASEAN Shipping
Express Freight Management
Express Freight Management is more than a freight forwarder. We act as your compliance partner, especially when policy changes impact your logistics. Our services are built for U.S.–ASEAN trade, where we blend the physical movement of goods with deep regulatory knowledge. We specialize in complete door-to-door shipping, managing every step for you. This includes pickup, consolidation, warehousing, customs clearance, and final delivery.
Conclusion
Brazil now faces a sweeping 50% tariff, and copper imports are under heavy penalties. At the same time, ASEAN suppliers face stricter checks for routing and compliance. Unfortunately, this second wave of Trump tariffs is unlikely to be the last.
In moments like this, informed logistics decisions are not just a necessity — they’re a competitive advantage. Whether you’re facing a tariff hike on ASEAN machinery or need to understand what qualifies as “substantial transformation” under Section 232, Express Freight Management brings clarity to complexity. We plan ahead, so you don’t have to scramble later. Our team is ready to work with your logistics, finance, and procurement teams to make sure you’re prepared.
Streamline your logistics with Express Freight Management – your trusted partner for seamless global shipping solutions. As a leading international freight forwarder based in the United States, we have successfully managed trades between the United States and Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam for nearly two decades. With expert knowledge, advanced technology, and a commitment to reliability, we provide seamless logistics management that helps you focus on what matters most—growing your business.
