US President Donald Trump said that the July 9 deadline for reimposing broad tariffs on imports may not be set in stone. Speaking at the White House, Trump said the date could be moved forward or backward, depending on how trade talks progress.

“We have full flexibility. We can shorten the timeline, or extend it. Personally, I’d prefer to move quickly,” Trump said. “I’d love to just notify everyone: Congratulations, you’re now paying 25 per cent.”

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signalled the possibility of an extended timeline, suggesting that agreements might still be reached by Labor Day.

Earlier on Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the administration is open to shifting the July 8–9 tariff deadlines, calling them “not critical.” She emphasised that President Trump retains the authority to move those dates as he sees fit.

“If countries don’t come to the table, the president has the option to simply present them with a deal,” Leavitt said, noting that this could involve setting reciprocal tariffs deemed favourable to US interests and workers.

Markets responded positively to Leavitt’s comments, with stocks climbing to session highs amid optimism that a more flexible approach could avert trade disruptions.

In April, the president introduced a system of reciprocal tariffs on nearly all foreign imports. However, a 90-day grace period—expiring July 8—was granted on any tariffs exceeding 10%, providing countries time to negotiate.

By late May, Trump escalated his stance, threatening tariffs of up to 50% on goods from the European Union, which had already been hit by the earlier round of tariffs.

With the clock ticking, the administration’s messaging suggests that while pressure remains on trading partners to strike deals, there’s room for negotiation—and delay.

– Ends

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