U.S. President Donald Trump announced Thursday that the country will begin issuing formal tariff notices to several nations by Friday, signaling a clear pivot from ongoing trade negotiations toward unilateral tariff enforcement.
Trump confirmed that the first wave of letters will go out to 10 countries, with tariff rates ranging between 20% and 30%. This decision marks an official abandonment of the earlier plan to secure 90 trade deals within 90 days. So far, the U.S. has finalized trade agreements with only the UK and Vietnam, and has reached a framework deal with China.
With the July 9 tariff deadline fast approaching, countries such as Japan, South Korea, and India have been rushing to negotiate terms — yet no further agreements have been reached. Trump emphasized that he has no intention of extending the deadline.
Analysts warn the move could reignite global trade tensions and pose immediate challenges to export-dependent economies. Markets are now awaiting further clarity on tariff specifics and potential international responses.