Why Trump Wants To Stop Countries From Doing Business With Iran

Washington: Donald Trump has warned that the United States will impose 25% tariffs on countries that continue doing business with Iran. The announcement has triggered concern in global markets, as several countries still trade with Iran despite long-standing US sanctions.

The warning signals a tougher stance and could affect not only Iran, but also nations that maintain economic ties with it.

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Who Are Iran’s Trading Partners?

Iran’s economy depends heavily on a few key partners. Iran’s biggest trade relationships are with countries such as China, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iraq, Turkey, and India.

China is Iran’s largest trading partner. It buys a significant portion of Iran’s oil and supplies consumer goods, electronics, and machinery.

Russia has also strengthened trade ties with Iran in recent years, especially in areas such as energy, transport, and defense-related cooperation.

Countries like India and members of the European Union have sharply reduced trade due to US pressure. However, limited exchanges still continue, mainly for humanitarian goods such as food, medicines, and essential supplies.

Why Has Trump Taken This Decision?

Trump’s move is part of his long-standing “maximum pressure” policy against Iran. He has repeatedly claimed that Iran uses trade and oil revenues to fund its nuclear program and support groups hostile to US interests and its allies in the Middle East.

By threatening tariffs on countries trading with Iran, Trump is sending a strong message:
Do business with Iran, and you may lose access to the US market.

Politically, the decision also appeals to Trump’s domestic supporters, as taking a tough stand on Iran has been a central part of his foreign policy image.

How Will This Impact Iran?

The impact on ordinary Iranians could be severe.

Iran is already struggling with high inflation, and its currency, the rial, is currently among the worst-performing currencies in the world. Prices of basic items such as food, fuel, and medicines have risen sharply, making daily life harder for millions.

If more countries reduce trade to avoid US tariffs, Iran could face shortages, job losses, weaker oil revenues, and further currency decline.

At the same time, Iran may depend even more on China and Russia, increasing its reliance on a smaller group of allies.

In simple words, Trump wants to cut off Iran’s economic support by pressuring other countries to stop doing business with it, so Iran faces more financial stress and isolation.