In July 2025, major developments unfolded in Washington and internationally involving U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies and his administration’s attempts to redefine birthright citizenship. These events have ripple effects that are engaging world leaders, legal experts, and the public alike.
Myanmar Junta Chief Requests Tariff Reduction
The recent news from Myanmar highlights that the country’s military leader requested U.S. President Donald Trump to reduce the seemingly punitive 40% tariff imposed on Myanmar’s exports to the United States. Reported by state media on July 11, 2025, the Myanmar junta chief expressed willingness to send a negotiation team to Washington, signaling efforts to ease trade tensions and potentially reopen economic channels.
This tariff is part of Trump’s broader strategy targeting several countries as leverage for trade negotiations and to protect U.S. economic interests.
Trump’s Expanding Tariff Plans Target Copper and Canada
On July 10, Trump announced plans to impose a 50% tariff on copper and related semi-finished products used in critical sectors like power grids, military applications, and data centers. Bloomberg News confirmed this, citing sources familiar with the plan. Copper’s importance for technology and infrastructure implies potential disruptions and price rises if tariffs proceed.
Coinciding with the copper tariff plans, Trump also proposed to impose a 35% tariff on Canadian imports starting next month, alongside 15% to 20% tariffs on other trading partners. This action signals a significant escalation of trade barriers, potentially impacting international trade relationships. While investors showed mixed reactions, optimism persists that negotiations may prevent extensive tariffs, as suggested by record highs in London stock markets.
Birthright Citizenship Legal Battle Intensifies
The Trump administration is concurrently involved in a high-profile legal battle over birthright citizenship—a core aspect of U.S. immigration policy. On July 10, a federal judge blocked Trump’s executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. The block followed a class-action lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of pregnant immigrants, undocumented parents, and their U.S.-born children.
The ruling applies nationwide and temporarily halts the president’s efforts. The issue is expected to escalate to the U.S. Supreme Court for a definitive ruling. Legal experts view this as a significant test of lower court authority over executive immigration orders. Despite judicial setbacks, the administration continues to communicate its trade stance through presidential social media platforms.
Expert Opinions and Potential Consequences
Economic analysts warn that Trump’s tariff policies may result in increased costs for American consumers and importers as supply chains adapt to new taxes. Vital industries like steel and copper could experience price volatility, and there is concern over potential retaliation leading to trade wars and global market disturbances.
Legal scholars emphasize the constitutional complexities involved in altering birthright citizenship via executive orders. The court injunction safeguards children’s rights born on U.S. soil, contributing to a politically and socially charged debate. This legal impasse could reshape American citizenship policy if it advances.
Possible Outcomes
- Trade negotiations with Myanmar: If diplomatic talks succeed, tariffs on Myanmar exports may decrease, improving economic ties and possibly sparking broader regional trade discussions.
- Copper and Canadian tariffs: These measures may persist as part of Trump’s America-first agenda, continuing to affect trade relations and market conditions.
- Birthright citizenship case: Anticipated Supreme Court involvement will determine the legality of the executive order and influence future immigration policy.
- Market vigilance: Businesses in manufacturing and technology sectors are preparing for disruption, closely monitoring tariff developments.
Conclusion
July 2025 has marked a month of significant events involving President Trump’s assertive tariff policies and a notable legal confrontation over birthright citizenship. Myanmar seeks tariff relief through diplomacy, while the U.S. imposes sweeping tariffs affecting copper, Canada, and other partners. Meanwhile, the judiciary continues to check immigration reform powers, potentially redefining citizenship norms.
These interconnected developments underline the administration’s focus on economic protectionism and immigration reform, sparking extensive debates both domestically and internationally. Though outcomes remain uncertain, the impact on global politics, trade, and legal standards will be profound.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for the latest updates.
