Tariffs could be delayed for countries actively negotiating trade deals with the United States, according to Stephen Miran, chair of the White House Economic Advisers. As President Donald Trump’s deadline approaches, Miran expressed cautious optimism about securing additional agreements this week.
Miran explained that the trade negotiation process involves several steps. He said these steps often lead to a deal timed with the approaching deadline. So far, three trade agreements have been finalized. However, Miran hinted that more deals might follow, especially for countries making concessions but needing more time.
“Tariffs could be delayed for countries negotiating in good faith,” Miran told reporters. He added that while deals are not finalized yet, those countries may receive extensions on tariff deadlines.
Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated tariffs will revert to April levels on August 1, weeks after the original July 9 deadline. This adjustment gives some room for ongoing talks.
Miran made it clear that countries not negotiating seriously could face higher tariffs. “For countries that aren’t making concessions, expect higher tariffs,” he said. Ultimately, President Trump will decide which nations qualify for delayed tariffs.
In addition to trade talks, Miran addressed concerns over the Congressional Budget Office’s estimates on healthcare coverage losses. He argued that past predictions by the CBO have been inaccurate. He also emphasized that economic growth, job creation, and employer-provided insurance offer the best path to increasing coverage.
Overall, tariffs could be delayed as the U.S. balances pressure to protect its markets with the desire to foster global trade deals. Businesses as well as investors are watching very closely, awaiting clear signals from the administration. If the delays happen, they could ease uncertainty and promote smoother trade relations in the near term.
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