Donald Trump triggers race to offer US concessions before tariffs hit

Donald Trump’s decision to impose sweeping tariffs on US trade partners, including close security allies, has triggered a rush to find ways to placate Washington before the measures take effect. Countries have until April 5 to negotiate trade concessions with the US before the tariffs, ranging from 10% to over 50%, go into effect. Despite efforts by countries like the EU, Japan, and South Korea to offer concessions such as buying more US goods or reducing trade surpluses, there are significant differences in trade policies that remain unresolved. The tariffs have sent markets down and countries like Japan, South Korea, and Vietnam are facing substantial tariffs despite making offers to increase purchases of US goods or offer concessions. India has also attempted to appease the US with trade concessions, with talks of a trade deal with the US underway. This week, the country was hit with a 27% tariff, but Modi’s government aims to continue progress on a US-India trade agreement. In Latin America, Brazil and Argentina faced a 10% tariff, with Argentina’s libertarian president expressing interest in a US free trade deal. South Africa, facing a 31% tariff, seeks a new trade agreement, while smaller economies like theirs must navigate Trump’s trade policies carefully.

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