Countries Around the World Strike Back at the Trump Administrations Increase in Tariffs

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Mar. 13, 2025
By: Marvin E. McPherson

Several countries have enacted retaliatory tariffs in response to recent U.S. trade measures. While other countries are taking a wait and see approach. The current tariff environment is likely not going to see any calming seas for a while. Below is a summary of these actions, organized by country.

The European Union

The EU has announced plans to implement retaliatory tariffs in response to ongoing trade disputes.  The package was announced in response to the Trump administrations 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, worth about $19 billion to EU exporters. These measures are expected to take effect in mid-April, following consultations with its member states.

The response package is expected to not only impose tariffs on U.S. exports of aluminum and steel, but also lumber, agricultural commodities and lumber. A full list of items that will be under review is here. Historically the EU has targeted products from states with Federal representation perceived to be able to leverage concern into action to alleviate tariffs against the EU.

While specific details are still being finalized and this measure starts an EU investigation, businesses involved in transatlantic trade should prepare for potential impacts on costs and supply chains. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Canada

In response to the U.S. imposing 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, Canada is following a “dollar-for-dollar” approach. As such, Canada has announced additional tariffs to go into effect 12:01 am, March 13, 2025. The 25 percent reciprocal tariffs on a list of steel products worth $12.6 billion and aluminum products worth $3 billion, as well as additional imported U.S. goods worth $14.2 billion, for a total of $29.8 billion. The list of additional products affected by counter tariffs includes tools, computers and servers, display monitors, sport equipment, and cast-iron products.

This is in addition to the first tranche of reciprocal tariffs of $30 billion worth of U.S. imports. These measures, effective from March 4, 2025, target various U.S. goods, including agricultural products and manufactured items.

China

Following the U.S. escalation of tariffs on Chinese goods, China imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports. These measures include a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tariff on oil and agricultural machinery, effective from February 10, 2025. Furthermore, on March 3, 2025, China announced additional tariffs of 15% on U.S. chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, and 10% on other agricultural products, effective from March 10, 2025.

Mexico

Mexico has indicated plans to continue negotiations with the U.S., President Sheinbaum, in a press conference stated the Mexico will “wait until April and then make our decision on whether or not to impose reciprocal tariffs.”

Japan

Japan appears to be focused on negotiating a settlement with the United States. It does not appear that any retaliatory tariffs are currently being contemplated.

South Korea

South Korea appears to be focused on reaching a settlement with the United States, in part by clarifying the tariff treatment of United States exports to Korea. It does not appear that any retaliatory tariffs are currently being contemplated.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has not announced any immediate retaliatory tariffs in response to U.S. trade measures. It is reported that the UK trade representatives are advocating for pragmatic negotiations rather than immediate retaliation.

Australia

Australia has indicated that the country does not intend to retaliate against the U.S. tariffs.

We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates as more information becomes available. If you have any questions or need further clarification on how these tariffs might affect your operations, please do not hesitate to reach out.