
Trump’s Tariffs on Lesotho Impact Garment Industry
Former President Donald Trump has imposed the highest tariffs on Lesotho, a small African nation, significantly affecting its garment industry. The decision, announced on April 3, 2025, has led to widespread concern among Lesotho's garment workers, who are now facing potential job losses and reduced wages.
The tariffs, described as the highest ever imposed on Lesotho, are part of Trump's broader trade policy aimed at protecting American industries. However, the move has been criticized for its severe impact on Lesotho's economy, which heavily relies on garment exports to the United States. The garment sector in Lesotho employs thousands, and the new tariffs threaten to destabilize this vital industry.
Workers in Lesotho have expressed fears over their future, with many worried about the sustainability of their jobs. The tariffs have also sparked a debate on the global stage about the fairness of such trade policies and their impact on developing nations. The international community is closely watching how Lesotho will navigate these economic challenges.
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What does the USA import from Lesotho?
The US has a big trade deficit with Lesotho, which sells textiles – including jeans – and diamonds to America.
Does the US trade with Lesotho?
Lesotho Trade Summary U.S. total goods trade with Lesotho were $240.1 million in 2024. U.S. goods exports to Lesotho in 2024 were $2.8 million, down 15.0 percent ($0.5 million) from 2023.
Who has the highest tariffs on the US?
This is expected to change after U.S. President Donald Trump slapped a 50% tariff on imports from Lesotho, the highest among all countries. According to Trump, Lesotho charges a 99% tariff on U.S. goods, but the government said it doesn't know how the U.S. administration calculated that figure.