- U.S. tariffs up to 20.2%, highest since 1933.
- Global trade impacted significantly.
- Consumer goods prices rise sharply.
The average U.S. tariff rate reached its highest since 1933, at 18.6%–20.2% in August 2025. This surge followed policy changes under President Trump, significantly affecting global trade and causing consumer price increases of 1.8%.
The average U.S. tariff rate climbed to between 17.7% and 20.2% in August 2025, marking the highest level since 1933, following significant policy changes under President Trump’s administration.
Aggressive tariff policies are altering the global trade landscape, elevating tensions and triggering economic adjustments worldwide.
The U.S. has enacted a sharp rise in tariff rates, reaching between 17.7% and 20.2%, the first such increase of its kind since the Smoot-Hawley Act of 1930. President Donald Trump, exercising IEEPA powers, has played a pivotal role in these policy developments.
Donald Trump, President, United States, “Effective August 29, 2025, the de minimis exemption is eliminated, and all shipments must be subject to full tariff review.” – Official executive order published on government portal
Under Trump’s administration, comprehensive tariffs have been imposed, affecting nearly all goods imported into the United States. The policy particularly impacts sectors like shoes and apparel, where tariffs increased by 39% and 37%, respectively.
The U.S., in its trade interactions, has seen an escalation in tariff rates peaking at 145% for Chinese goods, with China reciprocating by increasing tariffs to 125% on U.S. goods. Consumer prices have surged, affecting household incomes, with lower-income brackets facing significant financial pressures.
While no direct changes in major cryptocurrencies like BTC or ETH were initially noted, broader economic uncertainties could later affect these markets. Historically, trade tensions have indirectly swayed crypto assets, and renewed tariff disputes could amplify these dynamics.
Globally, the policy shift underlines significant trade challenges reminiscent of past crises, making stakeholders wary of potential financial, regulatory, and technological repercussions. Meanwhile, industry forums continue to focus on stablecoin resilience amid macroeconomic risks.
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