‘We can do whatever we want’, Trump said on the deadline of reciprocal tariff

Washington: Ever since US President Donald Trump came to power, he has been in the news for his statements and decisions. He says something one day and something else the next day. Now Trump has given a fresh statement. He has said that the deadline to re-impose comprehensive US tariffs by July 9 is flexible and it depends on the direction in which the trade talks move.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, ‘We can do whatever we want. We can increase or decrease this deadline. I want it to be shortened. I feel like sending a letter to all countries directly – congratulations, now you will pay 25 percent tariff.’

India sent its delegation to America
Amidst the airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear bases and the debate in Congress on taxes and expenses, the Trump administration has intensified its efforts regarding trade. On Thursday, the US put forward a new proposal to the European Union, while India has sent its delegation to Washington so that trade talks can move forward.

The deadline may be extended till Labor Day
US Finance Minister Scott Bessant also indicated that the deadline for the agreement may be extended till Labor Day (early September). In an interview to Fox Business Network, he said, ‘Many countries of the world are making good proposals. We have 18 major trading partners. If agreements are reached with 10-12 of these, and we are in talks with 20 other major economies, then we can wrap up all this by Labor Day.’

Earlier on Thursday, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt said that the July 8-9 deadline is ‘not very important’ and the President can change it as per the need. Levitt said, ‘If countries do not come for talks, then the President has the option to send them a deal directly.’

The 90-day exemption ends on July 8
He also said that reciprocal tariffs can be fixed keeping in mind the interests of America and workers. Trump had implemented the reciprocal tariff system on almost all foreign goods in April. However, a 90-day exemption period was given on tariffs above 10 percent, which ends on July 8, giving countries time to negotiate.

In late May, Trump hardened his stance and warned that if agreements were not reached, up to 50 percent tariffs could be imposed on goods coming from the European Union, while tariffs have already been imposed on many goods.