U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stirred international trade discussions with his latest statement on Wednesday, revealing plans to soon send official letters to several key trading partners. These letters are expected to outline firm trade deal terms presented as a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum.
Speaking to reporters at the Kennedy Center, Trump said the letters would be sent out within the next week and a half to two weeks—just ahead of the July 9 deadline, which has been set as the final date to reach new trade agreements. According to Trump, active discussions are currently underway with Japan, South Korea, and more than 15 other countries.
However, there is skepticism over whether this deadline will be met. This wouldn’t be the first time the President has set aggressive timelines for trade negotiations, only to delay or extend them without firm action. When asked if he would consider extending the July 9 deadline, Trump responded, “I’m willing to, but I don’t think we’re going to need it.”
The tariff plans—what Trump has referred to as a “freedom day” for trade—were initially announced in April, followed by a 90-day extension to allow time for negotiations. As that grace period nears its end, pressure continues to mount on America’s major trading partners. Trump has repeatedly warned of steep tariffs for countries that refuse to sign trade deals on U.S. terms.
So far, the only finalized agreement has been signed with the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, a trade framework with China is reportedly in place. Trump claimed on Wednesday that the deal with China is “done,” and that the U.S. has secured a supply of rare earth elements from the country—though no further details have been released to the public.
With the deadline fast approaching, global markets and trade watchers are keeping a close eye on whether these tariffs will actually be enforced or used once again as leverage in Trump’s high-pressure negotiation strategy.
