Trump's Deadline for Trade Talks

On July 6, 2025, President Donald Trump announced his intention to conclude trade negotiations by July 9, either through sending tariff letters to trading partners or finalizing agreements. This statement was made upon his arrival at Morristown Airport, New Jersey, highlighting a critical week ahead for U.S. trade relations.

Details of the Announcement

President Trump mentioned, "We will be sending out letters on Monday (July 7), and it could be 12 countries, or maybe 15 countries." This indicates a slight increase from the previously mentioned 12 countries targeted for tariff letters.

He further elaborated, "It could be about 15 countries, and they will be sent out on Monday (July 7), with some being sent on Tuesday (July 8) and Wednesday (July 9)." Trump emphasized the combination of letters and deals, noting that negotiations have concluded with some countries.

Implications and Next Steps

Commerce Secretary Howard Rutnik clarified that tariffs would be effective from Aug. 1, stating, "The President is setting the rates and the deals right now." This suggests a dual approach: concluding negotiations with some countries and setting unilateral tariff rates for others, based on trade deficits or non-tariff barriers.

The possibility remains for continued negotiations even after the dispatch of letters, given the Aug. 1 effective date for tariffs. Rutnik affirmed his support in the decision-making process, underscoring the ongoing negotiations with various countries.