Kevin Hassett, Chairperson of the U.S. National Economic Council (NEC), noted on the 10th (local time) that specific proposals to lower reciprocal tariffs have been made by 15 countries so far.
Hassett said in an interview with American Fox News and CNBC that he has already received proposals from more than 15 countries, adding, "This does not mean a transaction has been finalized, but it indicates that many more people are expressing a desire to engage in dialogue."
He stated, "Specific proposals are on the table," and reported that approximately 15 countries have been identified by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), noting that negotiations are moving quickly and that many transactions are nearing completion.
Hassett did not disclose the list of countries currently in negotiations, but mentioned that he intends to submit a prioritized list of negotiation countries to President Trump during a high-level meeting that day. He added, "The president will likely have specific thoughts on which countries to prioritize."
These comments came shortly after President Trump announced a 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs for most countries excluding China and that only a basic tariff rate of 10% would apply. Hassett explained that "everything was progressing well, but issues of trust in the Trump administration began to arise in the bond market."
He also revealed, "We were discussing whether to announce a resolution to the negotiations right up until President Trump declared the suspension of reciprocal tariffs," adding, "Ultimately, the president made a direct decision."
Meanwhile, he maintained a tough stance on China. Hassett said, "China is now facing significant turmoil. Ships filled with Chinese products are losing their routes," and he remarked, "This pressure will compel China to come to the negotiating table."