A clear warning accompanied the tariff announcement:"should Thailand decide to raise its own tariffs in retaliation, for any reason, the US would impose additional tariffs on top of the already announced 36%."

Trump underscored his rationale, stating that the trade deficit poses"a major threat to our Economy and, indeed, our National Security!"

However, the letter also offered a potential pathway for adjustment. Trump indicated that if Thailand were to"open its heretofore closed Trading Markets to the United States, and eliminate its Tariff, and Non Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers, we will, perhaps, consider an adjustment to this letter," with the final rates depending on the overall relationship. He concluded with the assurance,"You will never be disappointed with The United States of America."



Thailand is not alone in facing these heightened duties. The 36 per cent tariff also applies to Cambodia, while Myanmar and Laos will see the highest rate at 40 per cent.

Other nations targeted include South Korea and Japan, both facing a 25 per cent tariff, alongside Malaysia (25%), Tunisia (25%), Kazakhstan (25%), Indonesia (32%), South Africa (30%), Bosnia and Herzegovina (30%), Bangladesh (35%), and Serbia (35%).