Another late-night Trump trade twist -- just hours before the world hit go

I am sure there are many who would love to smack that smirk off his orange face!!



Another late-night Trump trade twist — just hours before the world hit go

Fri, Aug 1 20254:45 AM EDT Updated 5 Hours Ago

https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/trump-hits-dozens-more-countries-with-steep-tariffs-2025-07-31/

Key Points

Trump announced 40% tariffs on transshipped goods and new rates for dozens of countries just before the August 1 deadline.
The move follows a pattern of late-night shifts that have become a hallmark of Trump’s unpredictable trade strategy.
Markets and businesses were once again left scrambling, as timing proves to be as disruptive as the policy itself.
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The tariff deadline was set for August 1. Markets were watching. Countries were calculating. And then, right before midnight (well, UK time), came another announcement: 40% tariffs on transshipped goods, new rates for dozens of nations, and yet another reshuffling of Trump’s trade playbook. All set to begin next week.

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We’ve seen this before. In April, Trump stunned global markets with a blanket 10% tariff hike, followed by a pause, and then a partial reinstatement. The July 9 restart was delayed at the last minute and pushed to August 1. Each time, businesses scrambled, leaders called Washington, trade lawyers worked overtime. But the element of surprise remained.

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His leadership style mixes showmanship, brinkmanship, and a firm belief in the power of unpredictability. Announcements often come via social media with deadlines shifting, pressure building And when the world thinks the playbook is set, Trump throws in one more twist........................