Deadline Looms — With July 9 fast approaching, the temporary truce on U.S. tariffs ends. Trading partners across the G20 are in high-stakes negotiations with Washington, but uncertainty reigns.
EU Under Pressure — According to multiple European sources, the European Union is increasingly resigned to accepting a 10 percent baseline tariff on goods exported to the U.S., despite earlier hopes for lower rates. EU officials warn that Washington could hike tariffs on steel, aluminum and autos up to 50 percent once the pause expires.
An EU official familiar with the talks, speaking on condition of anonymity, admits, "Ten percent is a sticky issue. We are pressing them, but now they are getting revenues." Meanwhile, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick insists on keeping the threshold firm.
Modeling After the U.K. — European leaders are weighing an interim deal similar to the U.S.-UK agreement, which kept a 10 percent tariff on British exports while trimming higher levies on steel and cars. But insiders warn that a full EU-U.S. pact before July is unlikely.
Canada and Japan on Edge — Canada has threatened to impose its own tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum by late July, following Washington's decision to double levies to 50 percent. At this week's G7 summit, both sides expressed cautious optimism about a bilateral deal.
In Tokyo, Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa described U.S.-Japan talks as "uncertain" and "unclear," noting that key differences persist. Japan plans to pursue terms that align with its national interests.
Whether you're a tech entrepreneur sourcing parts from Europe or a digital nomad budgeting for cross-border gear, these tariff decisions will shape costs and choices worldwide.
Why It Matters — The outcome will ripple through global supply chains, affect prices from Pittsburgh to Paris, and influence economic confidence across markets. As July 9 approaches, all eyes are on Washington and its partners: will diplomacy prevail, or will trade barriers rise?
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U.S. trade partners voice unease with tariff deadline nearing
cgtn.com
