Trump's First Letters: 25% Tariffs for Japan and South Korea

The United States sent two letters to Japan and South Korea announcing the White House's decision to impose 25 percent tariffs on imports from these countries starting August 1. The letters were later published on the social Truth.

The letters all have a standard format. They thank the two countries for being trading partners of the United States and announce that the tariffs will be 25% unless the two countries intend to negotiate. They warn that if the two countries intend to apply tariffs on American goods in response to Trump's decisions, the percentage will be added to the 25% already announced.

"Goods transshipped to avoid higher tariffs will be subject to that higher tariff," it said, referring to the practice of moving goods produced in one country to another before they even reach the U.S. market.

"If you want to open up your closed markets to the United States, eliminate your tariffs and non-tariffs, trade barriers, perhaps we could consider adjusting this letter," Trump concluded in both documents. "These tariffs can be adjusted, up or down, based on our relationship with your country. You will never be disappointed by the United States of America."