The Trump administration is pushing negotiating countries to submit their most competitive trade proposals by Wednesday, Reuters reported, citing a draft letter sent to U.S. trade partners. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to accelerate ongoing negotiations ahead of a self-imposed five-week deadline.
The draft letter, originating from the U.S. Trade Representative’s office, sheds light on President Donald Trump’s approach to fast-track trade discussions that have been underway since April 9. These talks began after Trump paused his sweeping “Liberation Day” tariffs for 90 days, following market volatility triggered by the measures.
In the document, the U.S. asks countries to provide their strongest offers across several key areas, including tariffs and quotas on American industrial and agricultural exports, and strategies to dismantle non-tariff trade barriers. The letter also calls for commitments related to digital trade, national economic security, and other country-specific terms.
U.S. officials intend to review the incoming proposals over the next few days and identify a “potential landing zone” for agreements, which could include reciprocal tariffs. While the draft doesn’t specify which countries received the letter, it targets those with ongoing negotiations, active document exchanges, and scheduled meetings.
