From August 1, 2025, the United States will impose a 25% tariff on all goods imported from Kazakhstan, according to an official letter sent by President Donald Trump to Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The White House released the text of the letter, which states that the new tariff will apply to all Kazakh products, regardless of existing sectoral or industry-specific duties. This decision follows years of dialogue between the two nations on trade issues.
«It is my honour to send you this letter, as it reflects the strength of our trade relations and the fact that the United States remains open to cooperation with Kazakhstan, despite a significant trade deficit with your great country,» Trump wrote.
The US President noted that while there had been opportunities to address trade imbalances in the past, Washington now deems it necessary to act in order to reduce the long-standing deficit in bilateral trade.
Trump clarified that the 25% tariff would not apply to companies producing goods within the United States. However, he warned that any retaliatory tariffs imposed by Kazakhstan would result in additional duties, on top of the initial 25%.
«Please understand that these steps are essential to eliminate trade barriers. The imbalance poses a serious threat not only to our economy but also to our national security,» Trump added.
The Kazakh government has not yet issued an official response to the announcement.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Uzbekistan’s trade with EAEU countries reached $7.2 bn from January to May 2025.
