donald trump big move these partner countries gets exemption from us tariffs make zero duties

Donald Trump Announced Tariff Relief For These Countries: US President Donald Trump has issued a new executive order, under which from Monday (August 8, 2025) tariff relief will be provided to trading partner countries that will sign industrial export agreements with the US. The benefit of this exemption will be given especially on important items like nickel, gold, pharmaceutical compounds and chemicals. It aims to restructure the global trading system, reduce the US trade deficit and motivate trading partners to sign more agreements.

What is special about the new order?

The Trump administration's order includes more than 45 categories of goods on which aligned partners will receive zero import tariffs. These partners will be countries that sign a framework agreement with the US and pledge to reduce reciprocal tariffs and duties imposed by the Trump administration. The move is also consistent with agreements made with existing US allies, including Japan and the European Union (EU). The relief will take effect at 12 midnight on Monday.

Which items will get discount?

The White House said the tariff reductions would apply to items that cannot be grown, mined or produced in the United States or for which domestic production is insufficient. The exempted items include natural graphite, various types of nickel (which are essential for stainless steel and electric vehicle batteries), pharmaceutical compounds such as lidocaine and reagents for medical diagnostic testing. In addition, gold powder, leaf and bullion are also included in this relief.

The order also exempts certain agricultural products, aircraft and their parts, and unpatented pharmaceuticals. Once a corresponding agreement is reached under the order, the US Trade Representative (USTR), the Commerce Department, and customs officials will independently waive tariffs on these items without the need for a new executive order. The new order also revokes previous exemptions, including those for plastics and polysilicon (a material used in solar panels).

Current status and impact

Major supplier countries like Switzerland, which have yet to reach an agreement with Washington, are subject to a 39% tariff. The move is aimed at reducing US dependence on goods that cannot be produced domestically in sufficient quantities. The new orders will have a major impact on global trade and will also help protect US industrial interests.