“We Can Do Whatever We Want” Trump Declares July 9 Tariff Deadline Flexible
US President Donald Trump on Thursday signaled that the July 9 deadline for imposing US “reciprocal tariffs” may be adjusted, saying “we can do whatever we want,” and indicating room for flexibility depending on trade progress. He hinted at a “very big” upcoming trade deal with India following a recently finalised China agreement .
Trump made the remarks during a White House press exchange, amid a day of diplomacy that included a fresh tariff proposal to the EU and the Saudi delegation’s visit to Washington. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC that while some deals will be wrapped by the July deadline, negotiations with over a dozen key partners, including the EU, Japan, South Korea, and India, could be finalised by Labor Day .
Trump asserted that if countries fail to come to the table, the US could simply impose tariffs: “send them a letter … Congratulations, you’re paying 25 percent.” He stressed that the deadline was not critical and that he retains authority to alter it .
Bessent echoed this flexibility, saying countries negotiating in good faith may receive extended timelines or remain at the 10% baseline. Smaller trading partners will get formal notices detailing future tariffs.
The EU, represented by Ursula von der Leyen, confirmed receipt of a new US proposal and reiterated its openness to negotiation—though warned of gearing up for potential retaliation if terms are inequitable or no agreement is reached by July 9.
US stock futures rose sharply on the news, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq hitting record highs amid hopes of a more measured tariff rollout . The dollar slipped and European equities held steady on renewed optimism over trade resolutions .
The July 9 deadline marks the end of a 90-day tariff pause announced in April. Missing the deadline could trigger steep reciprocal duties—up to 50%—on EU, Indian, and other imports. With supply chains impacted, both sides have stakes in avoiding retaliatory cycles .
India-US trade talks continue, although recent reports indicate they’re stalled over farm and auto tariffs, threatening a pre-deadline bilateral accord . A breakthrough could ease pressure on exporters navigating potential tariff hikes.
