Trump Announces 90-Day Pause on Country-Specific Reciprocal Tariffs

Apr. 9, 2025
By: Austin J. Eighan

President Trump announced via a Truth Social post that he would pause increased “reciprocal tariffs” on countries that have not implemented retaliatory trade measures for 90-days. While the 10% baseline reciprocal tariff will remain for all countries, certain trading partners facing the higher country-specific rates outlined in Annex I of his Executive Order (see our discussion on the topic here) will receive reprieve. Trump reasoned that the pause will be effective for goods from countries who indicated a willingness to negotiate on “Trade, Trade Barriers, Tariffs, Currency Manipulation, and Non-Monetary Tariffs.”

Trump did not specify which particular countries would be granted the pause. However, he made clear that China would be exempt from any such relief. Trump signaled that he will be raising the China-specific “reciprocal” tariff rates from 84% to 125%, due to the “lack of respect that China has shown the World’s Markets.” Beyond the 125% reciprocal rates, previous tariffs under sections 232, 301, or the fentanyl IEEPA actions (or any other actions) that apply to China are not impacted by the change in the “reciprocal tariff” rate.

Although Trump stated that these changes are to take effect immediately, neither the White House, the Department of Commerce, nor U.S. Customs and Border Protection have issued notices yet detailing how the changes will be implemented.

As further developments arise, we will continue to provide updated reports outlining their impact on your business. Do not hesitate to contact any attorney at Barnes, Richardson & Colburn, LLP if you have any questions.