More than 50 countries have reached out to the Trump administration to begin trade negotiations following the rollout of sweeping new U.S. tariffs. The announcement comes after the administration imposed a 10% baseline tariff on all imports, with higher rates targeting specific nations.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that countries are eager to engage with the White House to avoid economic fallout and explore possible exemptions or adjustments. He emphasized that the administration views these talks as a strategic opportunity to secure more favorable trade deals for the U.S.
President Trump has remained firm on the tariff policy, despite rising fears of a recession and steep market losses. He compared the economic shakeup to “taking your medicine”—a temporary pain for long-term gain.
However, critics continue to raise alarms. Billionaire investor Bill Ackman warned that the tariffs could lead to an “economic nuclear winter” and called for a 90-day pause to allow room for diplomacy.
Still, the White House remains committed to its strategy, arguing that the tariffs are necessary to correct decades of unfair trade practices and strengthen American industries.
