Sri Lanka, July 10 -- Lesotho has declared a national state of disaster over the country's "high rates of youth unemployment and job losses" as uncertainty over US tariffs hits the landlocked nation.

Lesotho was hit by higher tariffs than any other country - 50% - when they were announced by President Donald Trump in April, although they have since been paused.

Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Majara said the state of disaster would be in force until 30 June 2027.

Unemployment in Lesotho stands at 30% but for young people the rate is almost 50%, according to official figures.

The declaration, in line with the country's Disaster Management Act, allows the state to "take all necessary measures to... minimise the effects of disasters" amon...