Belize Escapes Trump’s New Tariffs

The United States has imposed a new round of tariffs on imports from 60 of its largest trading partners, escalating President Donald Trump’s trade agenda and affecting nearly all goods entering the country. Belize is not among the countries targeted and is therefore not subject to the new tariffs.

The new measures, which took effect after a temporary tariff expired on Friday, impose duties of 10% to 12.5% on imports from countries including the United Kingdom, China, the European Union, Japan, Australia, and Brazil. U.S. officials say the tariffs are intended to pressure trading partners to strengthen efforts against forced labour in global supply chains.

Countries that have committed to enforcing bans on goods produced with forced labour will face a 10% tariff, while those deemed to have fallen short will be subject to the higher 12.5% rate.

While Belize has been excluded from the latest list, the tariffs are expected to have broader implications for global trade. Economists warn they could increase costs for businesses and consumers and prompt many countries to strengthen trade ties outside the United States.

The latest measures are part of President Trump’s broader strategy to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and encourage domestic manufacturing, a policy that has remained central to his economic agenda since returning to office in 2025.