Kevin Hassett says ahead of tariff deadline, “rough outlines of the deals are becoming clear”

The White House National Economic Council director Kevin Hassett has indicated that there are “rough outlines of the deals becoming clear” as the key tariff deadline approaches this week. According to Hassett, agreements with countries like the U.K. and Vietnam are serving as guidelines for potential deals with other nations.

Hassett mentioned on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” that there will be finalized deals this week, with President Trump’s 90-day freeze on sweeping U.S. tariffs set to expire on Wednesday. The White House has been highlighting new trade agreements with countries such as China, the U.K., and Vietnam in recent weeks, but there are still unanswered questions about other potential deals.

On April 2, President Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on most U.S. trading partners, while also increasing tariffs on goods imported from China. This move caused concern among investors, leading to a 90-day pause on most new tariffs. Hassett revealed that U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has negotiated several deals with foreign governments, with letters set to be sent to countries where agreements are not yet advanced enough.

While the details of the countries receiving these letters were not disclosed, Hassett mentioned that they could include both small and large trading partners. He emphasized the possibility of reaching a deal “at the last minute” with these letters. When asked about the extension of the tariff pause for important trading partners if deals are not finalized by Wednesday, Hassett stated that the U.S. is open to discussing various issues with all countries.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the president would send letters to countries warning them that if no progress is made, tariffs will revert to their April 2 levels on August 1. Hassett praised President Trump’s trade strategy, noting that the threat of high tariffs is encouraging countries to move their activities to the U.S., thereby creating more jobs.

Overall, there is anticipation surrounding the potential trade deals that may be finalized this week, with the deadline approaching. The administration’s approach to trade negotiations and tariffs continues to be a focal point of discussion, with the aim of achieving favorable outcomes for the U.S. economy.