Trump floats 10–15% tariffs, downplays negotiations as deadline looms

President Donald Trump has indicated that a new round of tariffs on U.S. trading partners could range from 10 to 15 per cent, as he continues to pressure foreign governments ahead of an August 1 deadline.

Speaking in an interview with Real America’s Voice aired on July 16, Trump said, “the rate would “be probably 10 or 15%, we haven’t decided yet.” The figure reflects a continuation of Trump’s aggressive trade policy, which in recent days has seen dozens of countries receive formal notice of pending tariff hikes unless new trade terms are agreed, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Trump’s administration had originally set a July 9 deadline for these new tariffs but extended the window by three weeks, triggering a scramble among foreign governments seeking to avoid the punitive measures. The president has described the letters—sent to more than two dozen trading partners—as “deals” in their own right, despite a lack of detailed negotiation or mutual consent.

While Trump and his advisers previously signalled a desire to strike tailored deals with multiple countries, the president’s recent statements suggest a more unilateral approach. “We could make a deal possibly with Europe. You know, it’s, I’m very indifferent to it,” he said, suggesting that the EU should treat the letter it received as a final offer.

The European Union, among others, had hoped to finalise a provisional agreement with Washington but was reportedly caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone. Meanwhile, market analysts have warned that the letters and tariff threats have reintroduced volatility and uncertainty into global trade and financial markets.

Trump’s April tariff threats were briefly put on hold amid concerns over market instability, but the revival of the plan through official letters has sent a clear signal that he intends to move forward. Canada, a close U.S. trading partner, is now facing a potential 35 per cent tariff on select goods beginning August 1. When asked about the situation, Trump replied, “It’s too soon to say.”

By Vugar Khalilov