Trump to Launch Streamlined Trade Talks with 18 Nations

New Unified Framework to Expedite Global Trade Negotiations

The Trump administration is preparing to embark on a major trade initiative by launching rolling negotiations with 18 countries under a newly developed unified framework, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Led by the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) office, the streamlined framework will focus on several broad areas such as tariffs, digital trade, economic security, rules of origin, and non-tariff barriers like regulatory hurdles. While the overall structure will remain consistent across countries, the specific demands will be customized based on the trading partner. The move is seen as part of President Donald Trump’s broader push to implement his reciprocal tariff policy more aggressively and efficiently.

Highlights

• The U.S. will conduct negotiations with 18 nations under a common but adaptable framework.

• Talks will address tariffs, digital trade, non-tariff barriers, economic security, and rules of origin.

• Each country will receive tailored demands despite the common structural approach.

Negotiation Timeline and Potential Tariff Threats

The U.S. plans to run rolling negotiations over the next two months, with six countries entering talks every week in a three-week cycle, aiming for completion by the self-imposed deadline of July 8. Countries that fail to reach a deal by this date may be subjected to reciprocal tariffs, unless President Trump decides to extend the current 90-day pause on new tariffs. According to the WSJ, the staggered schedule is designed to accelerate outcomes and pressure trading partners to make concessions quickly. This strategy reflects the administration’s belief in leveraging tariffs as a primary tool of economic diplomacy.

Highlights

• Negotiations will occur in rolling cycles over a tight two-month window.

• Failure to reach agreements could trigger reciprocal tariffs post-July 8.

• A fast-track approach aims to secure outcomes swiftly and minimize prolonged negotiations.

India Advances, Major Players Excluded from Talks

Among the 18 nations, India appears to be further along in the negotiation process, having already agreed to broad terms following Vice President JD Vance’s visit to New Delhi. However, Mexico and Canada — key U.S. trading partners — have been excluded from these discussions, as the reciprocal tariff directive does not apply to them under existing agreements. China also remains outside this initiative, as it faces a separate set of negotiations under 145% tariffs imposed earlier by the Trump administration. While the USTR maintains that its framework has been clearly communicated, some partners, particularly within the European Union, have indicated they are still awaiting detailed U.S. demands.

Highlights

• India has made significant early progress in aligning with the U.S. framework.

• Mexico and Canada are excluded; China negotiates under a separate track.

• Some partners, including the EU, await more specific U.S. demands.

European Union and United Kingdom Set Red Lines

As negotiations approach, both the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) are defining clear boundaries on what they are willing to negotiate. Brussels has explicitly ruled out discussions related to its value-added tax (VAT) system and agricultural subsidies, while London has asserted that its food and automotive safety standards will remain under national control. These early red lines suggest that while the Trump administration seeks rapid and broad agreements, significant friction points are already emerging that could complicate talks with major economies.

Highlights

• The EU has ruled out talks on VAT and agricultural subsidies.

• The UK insists on maintaining control over food and vehicle safety standards.

• Early friction points signal potentially difficult negotiations with key partners.