Trump Considers Disbursing Tariff Revenue to U.S. Citizens Amid Sweeping Trade Measures.

On the same day 25% tariffs on Indian imports came into effect, former U.S. President Donald Trump floated the idea of returning tariff revenues to American citizens in the form of “dividends,” according to a Reuters report. Trump’s remarks come as part of a broader push to reshape global trade under what he calls a more “fair and reciprocal” system. The latest wave of tariffs impacts dozens of countries, with India facing one of the steepest hikes.

While the U.K. and European Union nations were hit with 15% tariffs, Japan with 10%, and South Korea with 5%, Indian exports to the U.S. now face a flat 25% duty. Trump justified the higher rate by pointing to what he called “exponentially high” tariffs imposed by India on American goods.

Canada, Brazil, Switzerland, and Taiwan have also been targeted, with tariffs ranging from 20% to 50%. In addition, a new executive order signed by Trump imposes import duties on goods from 69 countries and the European Union, set to take effect on August 7. According to the order, Syria tops the list with a 41% tariff, followed by Laos and Myanmar at 40%, and Iraq and Serbia at 35%. Libya and Algeria will face 30% duties.

China, despite being the focus of earlier Trump-era trade actions — including proposed tariffs as high as 145% — remains in active negotiations with the U.S. “It’s not 100% done, but we’re close,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC.

The new tariffs triggered a sharp reaction in global financial markets, with investors concerned about supply chain disruptions and stalled trade talks, particularly with China. The uncertainty added to fears of a broader slowdown in global trade. Trump’s proposal to redistribute tariff revenues to Americans marks a significant policy shift, potentially turning punitive trade measures into a domestic economic pitch ahead of the upcoming election cycle.