In an effort to avoid mounting trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has started negotiations with Vietnamese, Indian, and Israeli officials. The negotiations will see the signing of bilateral trade agreements to avoid imposing the high tariffs on imports effective next week. Vietnam has a 46% tariff on its imports, while Indian imports are charged 26% tariffs, while Israeli imports have 17% tariffs.
Trump termed his phone call with Vietnam's General Secretary To Lam as "productive," indicating movement toward a possible deal. Likewise, talks with India and Israel are in progress to balance trade and promote economic cooperation. These talks are part of a larger effort to redefine global trade policies while reducing market dislocations.
The threatened tariffs have already created serious economic alarm, including a steep drop in stock markets. Trump's administration is still steadfast but has indicated willingness to negotiate for countries that are willing to do so. Analysts see this as a turning point for U.S. trade relations, potentially stabilizing or further straining global partnerships.
This is a developing story as the April 9 tariff deadline nears.
Source: CNN