On April 5, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time, U.S. customs officials began enforcing a new 10% baseline tariff on imports from all countries, marking a significant shift in American trade policy. This action is part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to address the nation’s trade deficit and is set to escalate with additional country-specific tariffs ranging from 11% to 50% on goods from 57 nations, including key allies such as the United Kingdom, Japan, and the entire European Union, starting April 9. The administration justifies these measures by citing unfair trade practices and aims to bolster domestic industries. However, critics warn of potential retaliatory actions from affected countries and the risk of igniting a global trade war that could destabilize international markets.