Trump Hints at Major Trade Deal Announcement During Tariff Dispute

President Donald Trump is teasing A statement released on May 8 titled "REGARDING A SIGNIFICANT TRADE AGREEMENT" amid inquiries into when trade discussions would yield outcomes.

Trump did not provide any specifics regarding the agreement, merely stating in all caps that it pertains to a "large and highly esteemed nation." According to The New York Times and Politico, with information from anonymous sources, this major country is none other than Britain.

On April 2, Trump introduced reciprocal tariffs on numerous nations but subsequently halted the majority of them for ninety days , indicating that nations were enthusiastic about negotiating trade agreements. The administration’s representatives have often mentioned that they are nearing the conclusion of these deals; however, none have been officially disclosed as of now.

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During a May 6 meeting with the Canadian prime minister, Trump remarked on the significant attention surrounding the trade deals.

Trump stated, “Everybody keeps asking: ‘When, when, when will you be signing deals?’” He added, “Signing deals isn’t necessary for us. We could easily close twenty-five deals at this very moment if we chose to... but we aren’t compelled to make these agreements. It’s them who need to strike deals with us because they desire access to our market.”

The president showed irritation towards the ongoing inquiries.

He expressed his desire for them to cease inquiring about how many deals he is closing this week.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told lawmakers During a May 6 committee hearing, it was suggested that agreements could be finalized shortly.

"It seems likely that we might announce trade deals with several of our biggest trading partners as soon as this week," Bessent stated.

Bessent identified 18 nations as significant trading partners. According to him, discussions have commenced with each one of these countries excluding China; however, conversations between representatives from the U.S. and China are currently set up.

Bessent along with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are going to Switzerland on May 8th where they will meet with China's primary spokesperson on financial issues.

Contributing: Reuters

The article initially appeared on USA TODAY: Trump hints at 'significant trade deal' announcement during tariff dispute