Trump to send tariff letters to nations from Friday: Report

“We’re probably going to be sending some letters out, starting probably tomorrow, maybe 10 a day to various countries saying what they’re going to pay to do business with the US,” Trump told reporters before leaving Washington for an event in Iowa, the report said.

July 9 deadline raises pressure on talks

Trump has warned that countries failing to reach agreements with the US by next week will face unilaterally imposed tariffs, a move designed to pressure nations into finalising deals.

He had first unveiled his plan for higher “reciprocal” tariffs on April 2, temporarily pausing them for 90 days to allow room for negotiations. During that period, a 10% tariff was implemented.

Deals struck with UK, Vietnam; China truce holds

So far, the administration has secured agreements with the UK and Vietnam and reached a truce with China, leading both sides to scale back tit-for-tat tariff measures.

Asked on Thursday if more deals were imminent, Trump replied, “We have a couple of other deals, but you know, my inclination is to send a letter out and say what tariffs they are going to be paying. It’s much easier.”

Vietnam to face tariffs for transshipped goods

Trump announced the Vietnam deal on Wednesday, stating that Vietnamese exports to the US will face a 20% tariff, while goods transshipped through Vietnam—typically components routed from China or other countries—will be taxed at 40%.

While these rates are lower than the initial 46% duty Trump had proposed, they still exceed the interim 10% level. Key details of the arrangement remain unclear, with the White House yet to release a term sheet or any official proclamation.

Markets respond positively despite lack of clarity

Despite the absence of full documentation, the Vietnam deal prompted a positive market response on Wednesday, with shares of US manufacturers operating in Vietnam seeing gains.

Trump turns up heat on Japan

Meanwhile, key trading partners such as Japan, South Korea and the European Union are still in talks with Washington. Trump has expressed hope for a deal with India but has taken a harsher tone on Japan.

Calling Tokyo a tough negotiating partner, he escalated criticism this week, suggesting Japan should be made to “pay 30%, 35% or whatever the number is that we determine.”