Temporary Tariff Pause Announced by President Donald Trump
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According to CNN, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day suspension of retaliatory tariffs and a temporary reduction to 10% for over 75 trading partner countries that have not imposed countermeasures against the United States.
In his post on Truth Social, President Trump stated:
“Given that more than 75 countries have contacted U.S. representatives—including the Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR)—to discuss trade issues such as tariffs, currency manipulation, and non-tariff barriers, and since these nations have not retaliated, I have authorized a 90-day suspension and a significant reduction of counter-tariffs to 10%, effective immediately.”
China Faces Sharp Tariff Increase
While offering relief to most partners, President Trump confirmed that tariffs on China will rise to 125%, effective immediately.
This move follows Beijing’s decision to retaliate against Washington’s latest tariff hike—marking another escalation in the ongoing U.S.–China trade conflict.
The decision came hours after China raised its tariffs on U.S. goods to 84%, and roughly half a day after Washington’s new tariff barriers officially took effect on most major trading partners.
U.S. Commerce and Treasury Officials Support the Strategy
U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent both witnessed the Truth Social post being published. Lutnick called it “one of the most remarkable announcements of Trump’s presidency.”
Bessent clarified that the tariff suspension was not a random policy shift, but rather part of a long-term strategy to encourage negotiation and global cooperation.
CNN earlier reported that Bessent met with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago on April 6 to discuss tariff policy and to urge a focus on securing new bilateral trade agreements.
Encouraging Dialogue and Global Rebalancing
According to Secretary Bessent, the suspension applies to all non-retaliating countries—serving as a reward and an invitation to engage in constructive dialogue with the United States.
“The President has shown tremendous courage to stay this course,” Bessent told reporters at the White House.
He added that nations seeking negotiations with the U.S.—including Canada and Mexico—will now enjoy a reduced tariff rate of 10%.
“Any country that wants to come to the table—we are ready to listen,” he emphasized.
Global Impact and Outlook
This 90-day suspension is expected to cool down trade tensions and open new opportunities for dialogue.
Economists suggest that the move could mark the beginning of a re-balanced trade framework—if partners use this window to negotiate fairer, more sustainable trade terms with the United States.