Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent shared insights on the Trump administration’s trade talks with Asian countries during an appearance on ABC’s “Meet the Press.” He described the negotiations as progressing positively.
Host Martha Raddatz raised questions about President Trump’s claim of making 200 tariff deals, asking for clarity on who these deals were with and whether any real agreements had been reached. Bessent explained that the president was likely referring to smaller agreements that are part of broader negotiations.
Raddatz pressed further, noting that these smaller agreements might not qualify as actual deals. In response, Bessent highlighted that there are 180 countries involved in trade discussions, with 17 key partners, excluding China, which has its own unique negotiation process. He emphasized that many of the discussions with Asian countries are yielding encouraging results.
Bessent also pointed out that several Asian nations have expressed willingness to change certain trade practices. He reflected on the unfairness of the current trading system and attributed the situation to previous administrations that allowed these issues to persist.
As the administration continues its efforts to reshape trade relationships, the next 90 days will be critical for these negotiations.