In recent weeks, President Donald Trump and his aides expressed optimism that tariffs would prompt foreign nations to enter new trade agreements, leading to better terms for the U.S. Trump claimed that numerous countries were eager to negotiate, stating, “They are dying to make a deal.” However, as time passed, it became evident that such agreements were not materializing as quickly as anticipated. Critics began highlighting the tariffs’ potential to raise consumer prices and negatively impact the U.S. economy, which recorded its first negative growth in years in the first quarter.
Frustrated by the lack of progress, Trump expressed disappointment at the media’s focus on the signing of deals, stating, “When are we going to sign one?” He asserted that discussions would begin with countries about opening their markets and reducing tariffs, emphasizing that the country could eventually have numerous deals in the pipeline.
Despite earlier claims, the U.S. has not engaged in substantial talks with its most significant trading partner, China, following the imposition of hefty tariffs. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that initial discussions with Chinese officials were rudimentary and that negotiations with fewer nations were ongoing than previously suggested by White House officials.
Bessent acknowledged the complexity of trade relationships and noted that the timeline for reaching agreements could extend longer than anticipated. Importantly, he pointed out that the administration prioritized the substance of deals over their speed. Trump is currently leveraging tariffs as a negotiating tool but may need congressional involvement for broader agreements in the future. The White House maintains that the responsibility lies with the negotiating countries to respond favorably to U.S. demands.
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