Japan faces U.S. tariffs – 30-year yields breach 3% as trade tensions and debt market shifts converge in a rare global policy moment. Japan wasn’t the only country targeted by the U.S. tariffs, with 14 others also on the list. While Japan faces a 25% rate, some countries are subject to even higher levels. In parallel, Japan’s 30-year bond yield reached 3.054%, marking the highest level in several decades.
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U.S. Tariffs on 14 Countries to Take Effect August 1
If you thought Donald Trump’s tariff war had receded into the background amid other political conflicts, you may have spoken too soon. On July 7, Trump signed a series of letters and executive orders establishing new import tariffs on goods from 14 countries, effective August 1. The list includes Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Serbia, Thailand, Tunisia, and others.
The differences in tariff levels are significant. While the 25% rate imposed on Japan and South Korea is already substantial, Indonesia faces a 32% excise tax, and goods from Laos and Myanmar are subject to a 40% tariff. In some cases, the new tariff rates exceed the “Liberation Day” levels introduced in April. The justification cited includes “persistent trade deficits” and “unfair transshipment practices” – the rerouting of goods through third countries to circumvent tariffs.
The signed letters, addressed directly to heads of state, contain diplomatically firm language:
“If for any reason you decide to raise your Tariffs, then, whatever the number you choose to raise them by, will be added onto the 25% that we charge.
If the countries ‘eliminate’ their ‘Tariff, and Non Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers,’ then the U.S. ‘will, perhaps, consider an adjustment to this letter.’
These tariffs may be modified, upward or downward, depending on our relationship with your Country.
You will never be disappointed with the United States of America. “
Japan’s 30-Year Bond Yields Break Above 3% for the First Time in Decades
At the same time, on the morning of July 8, Japan’s 30-year government bond yields rose to 3.054%, up 0.088% on the session and surpassing the 3% mark for the first time in decades. A five-day chart shows steadily increasing pressure, with the most notable acceleration beginning July 6.
For Japan’s debt market – historically associated with ultra-low yields – this kind of increase is rare. Especially against the backdrop of rising tariffs from a key trade partner, the move may signal increasing inflation expectations, a potential shift in Bank of Japan policy, or investor response to external economic signals.
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Another Geopolitical Move
This represents an ongoing intensification of geoeconomic fragmentation, even among traditional partners. The impact on the investment climate is already visible, and Japanese and other institutional investors in the affected jurisdictions may begin to adjust their risk profiles in anticipation of currency or trade repercussions stemming from the tariff offensive.
We’ll continue to monitor the situation closely. Stay tuned for the latest updates on crypto, blockchain, and global finance.
