On Monday, President Donald Trump escalated trade tensions across Asia by sending formal notices to Japan and South Korea, threatening to impose 25% tariffs on their exports to the United States unless new trade pacts are finalized by August 1. The move has sparked concern in diplomatic circles, as it significantly raises the stakes in ongoing negotiations.

In Tokyo, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described the action as “truly regrettable” but stressed that conversations with U.S. counterparts are ongoing. He confirmed that the U.S. letter “could be revised,” depending on Japan’s response — a signal that negotiation is still possible.

The reciprocal tariffs represent an escalation from April’s reciprocal tariff threat (24%), with Japan already bracing for the higher 25% rate . Ishiba convened a cabinet meeting to develop Tokyo’s strategy and emphasized the nationality of Tokyo’s response, acknowledging that progress through talks before August is doable.

In South Korea, officials confirmed that negotiations are being stepped up under the directive of the Industry Ministry and National Security Advisor. The tariff notice has been construed as a usable grace period for reaching a mutual agreement.

Elsewhere in Asia, reactions varied:

• Thailand, facing a 36% tariff, described the notice as “a little shocking” but remained optimistic about securing a rate on par with other nations.

• Malaysia, now facing a 25% U.S. tariff, reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, aiming for a fair and mutually beneficial trade deal.

• South Africa, under threat of a 30% duty, criticized the move as misaligned with trade data and vowed continued diplomatic efforts for a more equitable resolution.

According to Deborah Elms, a trade policy expert at the Hinrich Foundation, the uniformity of tariff measures applied to ASEAN countries—regardless of their negotiation efforts—points to a deeper motivation behind the U.S. policy shift. Elms suggested that Trump’s actions likely stem from broader strategic concerns about regional supply chains tied to China, rather than purely bilateral trade dynamics.

Despite the high tariff notices, White House spokesman Scott Bessent affirmed that the August 1 deadline is firm but negotiable, with Trump open to extension if countries engage