King Trump and the New Wave of Tariffs: How Will Global Trade Change by the End of 2025?

In early July 2025, President Donald Trump announced a new round of tariffs that could reshape the global economic landscape. The introduction of 50% tariffs on imported copper and planned levies on semiconductors are part of Washington’s aggressive “economic self-defense” strategy.

What does the new wave of tariffs include?

As of August 1, 2025, all copper imports to the US will face a 50% tariff. The administration cites “national security” and a desire to reduce dependence on strategic raw materials. At the same time, a Section 232 investigation is underway to impose tariffs on semiconductors, crucial for the AI and EV industries.

“We will not allow foreign competitors to threaten the future of American workers and companies,” President Trump declared during a speech in Detroit.

Market reactions

Markets reacted swiftly. Copper prices surged over 10% within two weeks, and mining companies in Chile and Peru reported significant gains. Meanwhile, US manufacturers reliant on imported raw materials are warning of rising costs.

The tech sector voiced concerns that semiconductor tariffs could delay AI infrastructure and electric vehicle development. MarketWatch analysis predicts key projects in the US could be postponed by up to 12 months.

Who benefits and who loses?

Experts highlight the mixed effects of tariffs:

• Winners: local US copper producers and a select group of mining firms in countries not affected by the tariffs.
• Losers: US consumers (1.5–1.7% higher prices), chip manufacturers, and developing economies dependent on access to the US market.

“This is a zero-sum game in the short term,” commented an analyst from Yale Budget Lab.

Geopolitical implications

The EU and Brazil have already threatened retaliatory tariffs on US products. China hinted it may restrict exports of rare earth elements, essential for the semiconductor industry.

This dynamic may accelerate regionalization of trade, as companies seek closer supply chains to avoid tariff barriers.

Possible scenarios

Scenario A: Local industrial victory

The US succeeds in boosting domestic production and reducing foreign dependence without triggering major price increases.

Scenario B: Global trade war

Retaliatory tariffs and protectionist policies lead to a global trade slowdown and new economic shocks.

Scenario C: Compromise agreement

Negotiations with the EU and Asia result in partial tariff rollbacks in exchange for updated trade rules.

Conclusion

By the end of 2025, the world may witness a new trade order. The question is whether it will bring stability and growth, or push the global economy into a spiral of protectionism and conflict.

Disclaimer:
This article is an analytical review by the BurgasMedia editorial board and reflects the opinion of an expert group based on current political, economic, and social developments.
The conclusions presented are not predictions or factual statements, but a hypothetical interpretation of possible scenarios.
The publication is not responsible for any discrepancies with future developments and encourages readers to form independent judgments based on verified sources.