Asian economies are carefully watching the latest moves by US President Donald Trump on tariffs. This comes after the Supreme Court struck down many of his earlier big import taxes. Hours after the ruling, Trump promised a new 10% duty on imports from everywhere, later raising it to 15%. These new charges start Tuesday and last 150 days under a different rule. Experts warn this could lead to more steps from Trump and add fresh uncertainty for companies and markets.
The court decision ended several tariffs that Trump placed on major Asian exporters like China, South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. Taiwan is the top maker of computer chips and a vital part of global tech chains. Before this, Trump’s tariff actions had hurt ties between Washington and many Asian countries. These nations depend heavily on selling goods to the US and are tied into supply networks that feed American markets.
In Japan, officials said they will study the court ruling and Trump’s reply closely before deciding what to do. On Sunday, Itsunori Onodera, a senior member of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Liberal Democratic Party and former defence minister, called the new tariffs “outrageous.” He said as an ally, he fears this will push other countries away from the US. Onodera spoke on a Fuji Television talk show.
China has stayed quiet on the new tariffs so far, as the country is on a long holiday. But in Hong Kong, which is ruled by China, a top finance official called the US tariff situation a “fiasco.” Christopher Hui, Hong Kong’s secretary for financial services and the treasury, said the new levy actually highlights Hong Kong’s special trade strengths. He told reporters on Saturday that it proves the city’s stable policies and clear rules. This gives global investors confidence in predictability. Hong Kong works as its own customs area, separate from mainland China. This has kept it safe from many US tariffs aimed at Chinese goods. Hong Kong products have faced lower rates, helping trade continue even during rising US-China tensions.
Analysts say the court ruling brings more confusion than relief. The decision only affects tariffs made under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, meant for emergencies. A trade group called Global Trade Alert says the ruling cuts the average US tariff level almost by half, from 15.4% to 8.3%. For some nations like China, Brazil, and India, the drop is even bigger in percentage points, though rates stay high.
In Taiwan, the government said it is watching events closely. It noted that the US has not yet decided how to fully carry out trade agreements with various countries. Taiwan recently signed two deals with the US. One last month promised $250 billion in investments, and another this month cut what Trump calls “reciprocal” tariffs. A cabinet statement said the early effect on Taiwan looks small, but officials will keep talking with the US to understand details and act as needed.
Businesses in the Asia-Pacific area have already felt pain from rising tariffs in 2025 and early 2026. Company reports showed money losses, changes in supply lines, and some pull-outs. Experts believe Trump may look for other ways to add levies and get around the court loss.
In Thailand, a trade official said the ruling could even help exports for a while. Uncertainty may cause more “front-loading,” where sellers rush goods to the US before any bigger tariffs hit.
Source: TradingView /Reuters
