Trump confirmed that reciprocal tariffs would take effect as scheduled on Monday.
Market speculation about a potential postponement of Wednesday’s tariffs had briefly boosted stock prices.
The White House swiftly moved to quash the rumors, with President of the United States Donald Trump emphatically stating that he was not considering any delay in imposing the tariffs.
Trump made these remarks in response to reporters’ questions during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Oval Office that day.
In response to reporters’ questions, Trump said that many countries are coming to negotiate with the United States, adding that the agreements will be fair and, in many cases, include substantial tariffs.
Trump emphasized that negotiations and permanent tariffs are not mutually exclusive.
He explained that tariffs can be permanent, but the United States remains open to negotiations simultaneously.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, known for his moderate stance, emphasized the importance of pursuing negotiations.
In a post on X, Bessent revealed that the White House is preparing for “meaningful negotiations” with more than 50 countries in the coming weeks. He noted that the talks will focus on nations that have responded “positively” to Trump’s tariff policy.
Bessent was careful to distinguish China from the other countries.
He asserted that China has isolated itself by escalating its retaliatory measures and doubling down on previous negative actions.
