Tariff pause could be extended beyond July deadline, says White House

WASHINGTON: The administration of United States (US) President Donald Trump may consider extending its suspension of reciprocal tariffs, which is scheduled to expire next month, a White House spokesperson said on Thursday.

AI Brief

A 90-day pause on 25% US tariffs on South Korean goods is set to expire on July 8.
Talks are ongoing between the US, South Korea, and others to avoid or reduce the tariffs' impact.
Trump may extend the pause, but no final decision has been made yet.

According to Yonhap news agency, Karoline Leavitt made the remarks amid ongoing talks between the United States, South Korea, and other countries aimed at avoiding or minimising the impact of the proposed tariffs.

"Perhaps it could be extended, but that's a decision for the president to make," Leavitt told reporters during a press briefing.

The suspension, which includes 25 per cent duties on South Korean goods, is set to end on July 8. Seoul has been working to reach a deal with Washington before the deadline.

Trump had announced the reciprocal tariffs on April 2, aimed at matching those imposed by other countries on US exports.

The tariffs, including 25 per cent duties on South Korean products, officially took effect on April 9 but were immediately paused for 90 days to allow for negotiations.

Earlier this month, Trump indicated he was open to extending the pause but suggested an extension might not be necessary.

-- BERNAMA