Trade agreement formally revealed by United States President Donald Trump featuring South Korea
The United States and South Korea have reached a new trade deal, replacing the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) with a reciprocal tariff rate set at 15 percent. This deal, announced by Donald Trump on July 30, 2025, aims to prevent a tariff war between the two key allies and trading partners.
Under the new agreement, South Korea will face a baseline 15 percent tariff on its exports to the U.S., a reduction from the previously threatened 25 percent rate. This is particularly significant for South Korea's largest export to the U.S. market - autos.
In return, South Korea has committed to significant investments in the U.S. and purchases of U.S. goods, including autos and agricultural products. This move is expected to enhance U.S. economic interests. However, some sensitive sectors like rice and beef remain protected.
The deal also broadens U.S. access to the Korean market for certain sectors such as automobiles and agriculture. This is a step towards ensuring South Korea can compete fairly in the U.S. market without facing higher tariffs than other allies.
The agreement is part of the Trump administration’s "reciprocal tariff" approach, linking tariffs to mutually agreed investment and commercial commitments. Details beyond the tariff rate and general investment commitments have yet to be fully clarified, with more comprehensive terms expected after follow-up statements and a high-level summit in Washington.
Initial assessments indicate the deal balances both countries' priorities by protecting U.S. industries and securing robust Korean market participation. It is worth noting that tariffs, unlike taxes, are prepaid at the port of entry.
Reference(s):
- CNN
- The New York Times
- The Wall Street Journal
- The Washington Post
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