U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that his administration may reinstate tariffs on various countries within the next two or three weeks. The statement comes at a time when global trade tensions are once again escalating, increasing economic uncertainty and raising fears of a possible recession in the United States.
“I believe that in the end, we will have great deals. But if not, we will impose the tariffs. It could happen within two or three weeks,” Trump said during a ceremony in the Oval Office.
Trump had suspended the so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on April 9, which in practice did not necessarily involve actual reciprocity. Between 90 and 100 countries have expressed willingness to negotiate, putting U.S. negotiating teams under significant pressure.
If agreements are not reached, tariffs may be reimposed, with the exception of China, on which Trump has already levied a 145% tariff.
Currently, the U.S. applies a universal 10% tariff on most imported goods, with higher rates on specific products.
The potential escalation of tariff measures has rattled financial markets. Although the S&P 500 has experienced a partial recovery, it has lost approximately $7 trillion in market value since mid-February. Businesses and consumers alike are feeling uncertain, while international financial institutions are warning of a slowdown in global economic growth.
Meanwhile, the trade war with China has further intensified. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has stated that the tariffs on China are “effectively an embargo,” while suggesting the situation might ease somewhat, though not entirely.
Trump has hinted that he will wait only a limited time for an agreement with Beijing. “I get along well with President Xi. I have to hope that we can make a deal. Otherwise, there will be a price,” he said.
In response to the U.S.’s new stance, China reacted sharply. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that Washington must stop its extreme pressure tactics and return to a dialogue based on equality and mutual respect.
“Continuing to push for a deal through extreme pressure is not the right way to deal with China — and it simply will not work,” Guo declared.
