The number of countries reaching out to the United States for trade discussions has surged dramatically since President Donald Trump introduced his "Liberation Day" tariffs. Kevin Hassett, the Director of the National Economic Council, shared this update, revealing that the number of nations contacting the U.S. has jumped from over 50 to nearly 70 in just a week.
This increase in international interest comes as President Trump announced a temporary 90-day pause on tariffs for most countries, reverting to a 10% rate. However, tariffs on China were raised to over 100%. Hassett explained that the goal of this trade policy is to reduce America’s reliance on foreign products, especially during times of conflict.
During an interview on CNN, Hassett emphasized that the administration is engaging with 130 countries, negotiating to lower tariffs. He noted that if nations approach the U.S. for fair negotiations, they could see their rates significantly reduced. "People are coming to town with great offers," he stated, highlighting the positive momentum in talks with countries like Japan, Korea, and India.
Some trade agreements are reportedly close to being finalized, and Hassett hinted that the administration might announce a preliminary deal soon. However, the decision was made to pause tariffs instead of rushing into agreements, reflecting the administration’s confidence in the ongoing negotiations.
Hassett also addressed concerns about the apparent inconsistencies among various administration officials regarding trade policy. He reassured that there is a clear strategy in place, with President Trump guiding the overall direction while he ensures that the team is aligned and moving forward effectively.
This rapid shift in trade dynamics reflects the administration’s efforts to reshape America’s trade relationships and reduce dependency on foreign goods. As negotiations continue, the outcome could have significant implications for international trade and U.S. economic policy.