Washington, D.CApril 5, 2025 . — Just days after the United Nations imposed reciprocal tariffs on a number of countries, the United States has initiated a series of trade discussions with Vietnam, India, and Israel, with President Donald Trump personally participating in the negotiations.
According to CNN, citing an official familiar with the matter, these talks represent an early phase in broader diplomatic efforts as nations begin shaping their responses to the sweeping tariffs, which are set to take effect on April 9. The list of affected countries includes Japan, Canada, Mexico, China, and others.
Israel Engages on Tariff Policy Ahead of Potential Netanyahu Visit
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday to discuss the new tariffs, which include a 17% duty on unspecified Israeli exports to the U.S.—Israel’s largest trading partner.
A readout from the U.S. State Department emphasized Washington’s continued support for Israel, adding that the leaders also discussed the situation in Gaza and the administration’s efforts to secure the release of hostages. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office has not yet issued a public statement on the call.
Reports suggest Prime Minister Netanyahu may visit Washington in the coming weeks, with trade expected to be a central item on the agenda—particularly the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
Vietnam Proposes Tariff Reduction Amid Steep U.S. Duties
Vietnam, which was hit with a 46% tariff under the new measures, has reportedly offered to reduce its own tariffs on American goods to zero, according to a post by President Trump on his social media platform, Truth Social.
“Just had a very productive call with To Lam, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, who told me that Vietnam wants to cut their tariffs down to ZERO if they are able to make an agreement with the U.S.,” Trump wrote. “I thanked him on behalf of our country, and said I look forward to a meeting in the near future.”
Vietnam, the United States' largest trading partner in Southeast Asia and a major global manufacturing hub, has previously expressed concern about the implications of Washington’s new trade stance. While initial messaging from the White House suggested the tariffs were non-negotiable, recent developments indicate a possible softening in tone.
India Also Impacted as Trump Defends Tariff Strategy
India has also been targeted, with the U.S. announcing a 27% tariff on its exports. Defending the move, President Trump stated that although Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is “a friend,” India imposes a 52% tariff on American goods.
“For years, we’ve charged them almost nothing,” Trump said during a press interaction on Thursday. “The tariffs give us great power to negotiate. They always have.”
Administration officials describe the tariffs as part of a broader strategy to reset global trade dynamics, with the White House positioning itself as a central player in shaping new agreements.
As international leaders prepare for further negotiations, the next few weeks are likely to set the tone for the evolving global trade landscape under President Trump’s assertive economic agenda.
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