Trump Lesotho tariff sparks alarm as 50% duty on imports threatens to devastate the small African nation’s economy. Known for supplying denim and textiles to renowned American brands like Levi’s and Calvin Klein, Lesotho’s fragile manufacturing sector is today in serious jeopardy.
A Tariff That Hits Hard
Lesotho, one of the world’s poorest countries, exports more than 10% of its GDP to the U.S.—primarily clothing. Trump’s new trade measure could wipe out nearly half of Lesotho’s exports.
- Key Brands Affected: Levi’s, Calvin Klein, and even Trump’s own Greg Norman branded golf shirts.
- Industry Size: 40,000 textile jobs are on the line, according to Oxford Economics.
Lesotho Responds
Trade Minister Mokhethi Shelile called the policy “shocking” and said a high-level delegation will travel to the U.S. to plead for exemptions.
“The 50% reciprocal tariff introduced by the U.S. government is going to kill the textile and apparel sector in Lesotho,” said economist Thabo Qhesi.
With ripple effects expected across retail, housing, and health, Lesotho could face an economic collapse if factories shut down.
The Irony
Despite Trump’s tough stance, golf shirts bearing the Trump name still appear online with “Made in Lesotho” tags—raising questions about the consistency of the tariff policy.
Political Undercurrents
Lesotho was also mentioned during Trump’s March address to Congress, where he cited U.S. aid spending on HIV/AIDS and LGBTQI+ programs in the country—programs his administration is looking to cut.
A Trade War with Human Costs
While Trump says the tariffs are “reciprocal,” citing Lesotho’s 99% duty on American imports, the effects on a nation battling poverty, unemployment, and HIV/AIDS could be devastating.
Source: USA Today
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