The United States, which previously announced plans for trade negotiations with 90 countries over 90 days, is set to begin sending letters to notify trading partners of reciprocal tariff rates starting Friday, just four days before the negotiation deadline. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has successfully concluded two agreements during the negotiation period, mentioned a 30% tariff rate and stated that notifications are much easier than negotiations.
According to The Hill, Trump told reporters on Thursday that he plans to send letters to about 10 countries per day starting July 4, informing them of the costs associated with doing business with the United States.
Although acknowledging a few potential deals that could be made, Trump noted, “My inclination is to send a letter out and say what tariff they’re going to be paying. It’s just much easier.” He questioned the feasibility of reaching agreements with over 170 countries, stating, “How many deals can you make? And you can make good deals, but they’re very much more complicated.” He continued, “I’d rather send out a letter saying this is what you’re going to pay,” arguing that it will be well-received.
Trump complained that there are too many countries with specific and detailed demands, citing products like beef and ethanol as examples. He expressed a desire for simpler deals that can be maintained and controlled, such as fixed tariffs of 20%, 25%, or 30% for each country.
On April 2, Trump declared he would offset what he called unfair tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers imposed on U.S. products by imposing reciprocal tariffs on imports. He initially set tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on 185 countries and regions but announced a partial 90-day suspension on April 9. On April 23, Trump stated that 90 countries had expressed a willingness to negotiate, adding that he would treat them fairly despite the large number, which would make thorough negotiations impractical. Peter Navarro, White House trade advisor, expressed confidence in finalizing negotiations within the 90-day grace period. To date, only the UK and Vietnam have completed reciprocal tariff negotiations with the U.S. The grace period ends on July 9 at 12:01 a.m.
When asked about extending the tariff grace period on Tuesday, Trump firmly replied that he is not considering an extension. He mentioned sending one- or one-and-a-half-page letters to negotiation partners while also stating that trade would not be allowed with certain countries. On Wednesday, Michael Faulkender, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Treasury, stated in an interview that he expects several agreements to be announced next week, adding that countries without agreements would face certain tariffs.
