US President Donald Trump sent letters to 14 countries, mainly in Asia, informing them that higher import tariffs will come into effect on Aug 1 unless they reach a deal with the United States.

Key US allies Japan and South Korea would be hit with 25 per cent tariffs.

Countries including Indonesia, Bangladesh, Thailand, South Africa and Malaysia were slapped with duties ranging from 25 per cent to 40 per cent. Countries in the region formed the bulk of the 14 nations that received letters from the US so far, announcing higher tariffs on their goods from Aug 1.US allies Japan and South Korea were among those hit, with 25 per cent duties imposed on them. Japan will “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest”, he said.