The Donald Trump administration stated that it can negotiate if other countries present alternatives better than tariffs to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and create a mutually beneficial trade structure, but for now, exemptions from tariffs are difficult.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer noted during a Senate Finance Committee hearing on the 8th (local time) that “if there are better ideas to achieve reciprocity and reduce the trade deficit, we are always willing to negotiate.”
Greer emphasized that the U.S. is trying to address unfair trade practices, subsidies, tariff, and quota issues of other countries, saying, “If other countries come up with alternatives that can advance these goals, the U.S. is open to that.”
However, he said, “President Trump has made it clear that he will not grant exceptions or exemptions, especially considering the nature of reciprocal tariffs,” adding that “if there are loopholes in tariff policy, it undermines the fundamental purpose of addressing the trade deficit and achieving reciprocity.”
Regarding the exceptions being raised, he stated, “There cannot be loopholes like Swiss cheese in tariff policy,” dismissing the short-term exemption possibilities.
Greer revealed that there is “no set timetable for negotiations. The results are more important than artificially setting a timeline,” adding that “we are moving as quickly as possible and negotiating even during the weekend and at night.” He explained that the trade deficit is a problem that has accumulated over decades, making it difficult to resolve in a short time.
Currently, the U.S. Trade Representative is in contact with about 50 countries, and it is reported that most countries subject to reciprocal tariffs have expressed that they will not retaliate against the U.S. He mentioned that in negotiations with Japan, “cooperation related to economic security, as well as trade issues, is also taking place.” Examples include export controls, investment restrictions, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) import issues.
In response to criticisms that President Trump imposed tariffs without adhering to trade agreements made with Mexico, Canada, and South Korea, he rebutted that “these countries must sell their products in the U.S. market. In particular, Asian countries base their economies on exports to the U.S.”
Regarding the background of imposing tariffs on the ally Australia, he explained that “Australia is prohibiting U.S. beef and pork despite the agreement.”
On the relationship with China, he said, “We want to reduce dependence by opening other markets in response to China reducing imports of U.S. beef in retaliation for U.S. tariffs.” He added that China has not upheld the trade agreement made during the first Trump administration and stated that related discussions with the Chinese side are ongoing.
Greer remarked that regarding the measures being pursued by the U.S., such as fees for the entry of Chinese vessels, “we will not implement all measures,” adding that “President Trump is closely examining policy proposals considering the time and incentives needed to foster the shipbuilding industry in the U.S.”