In a fresh move on global trade, the Trump administration has extended the timeline for reinstating tariffs, giving countries until **August 1** to finalize new trade agreements with the U.S. This revision shifts the original **July 9** deadline, offering some extra time for ongoing negotiations with key global partners.
Treasury Secretary **Scott Bessent**, speaking on national television Sunday, confirmed that the U.S. will begin notifying over 100 nations that if trade progress stalls, tariffs will revert to their **April 2 levels**, ranging between **10% and 50%**. The administration had initially suspended these tariffs to facilitate rapid dealmaking.
“This isn’t a new deadline — this is the action date,” Bessent stated. “If you want to accelerate deals, you’re welcome to. If not, rates go back to where they were.”
“There’s congestion at the final stretch — and with President Trump leading, we’ve got maximum leverage in play,” said Bessent.
Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary
The U.S. has so far reached updated trade pacts with the **UK, Vietnam**, and a limited understanding with **China**. Talks are also reportedly close with **India**, while the **EU** seems more willing to concede after months of slow negotiations.
Some senior economic advisors signaled room for flexibility. **National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett** hinted that President Trump could personally delay the reversion for nations nearing final agreements.
Trump emphasized on Friday that letters may go out as early as Monday, targeting multiple nations with new tariff brackets. He repeated claims that tariffs are paid by foreign nations — a claim repeatedly debunked, as tariffs are technically paid by U.S. importers.
The extended deadline injects temporary calm into global markets. However, the looming **August 1** reversion may bring volatility, especially for emerging markets reliant on U.S. trade channels. Importers in the U.S. are also preparing for potential cost escalations.
With the Trump administration continuing to move the goalposts, investors and businesses alike are advised to monitor each update closely. Whether the August 1 date holds or moves again will likely depend on political and economic calculations in the weeks ahead.