Heads up, global trade watchers! 🌍 On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a fresh wave of tariffs taking effect October 1, 2025. Here's the lowdown:
- Pharmaceuticals (💊): 100% tariff on branded or patented drugs – unless companies break ground or are already building a U.S. pharma plant; under-construction projects qualify.
- Kitchen Cabinets & Bathroom Vanities (🛠️): 50% tariff on imports, plus 30% on upholstered furniture. Trump says it's to fight the flooding of cheap goods and protect U.S. manufacturing for national security.
- Heavy Trucks (🚚): 25% tariff on big rigs made abroad – to keep U.S. haulers financially healthy and secure supply chains.
These new measures add to existing duties on steel, aluminum, copper and autos. U.S. automakers had eyed Mexico for parts under USMCA — now they may rethink that strategy.
Price check: U.S. furniture costs jumped 4.7% in August 2025 vs. last year, with living and dining sets up nearly 9.5% over 12 months, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
On drugs, Trump hinted at starting small before hiking to 150% in 18 months, and eventually 250%. Big pharma is racing to expand U.S. plants — smaller players might struggle to gauge impact.
Next up: In October, the U.S. Supreme Court will weigh whether these broad tariffs can be justified under emergency powers. A legal showdown could be on the horizon! ⚖️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
