Yigit Taha OZTURK 
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism following trade talks with Japan and South Korea this week. After meeting with Japanese Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato in Washington, the Treasury issued a statement praising the strong start of bilateral discussions.
During a meeting with South Korean Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok and Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun, Bessent discussed finding a new equilibrium on tariffs to encourage rather than restrict trade. The Treasury emphasized that talks focused on creating an “expanded equilibrium” to boost trade between the allies.
India Close To Securing Trade Deal With US
Meanwhile, Scott Bessent said India could be among the first countries to finalize a new trade deal with the U.S., avoiding President Trump’s suite of “reciprocal” tariffs. Speaking at the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings, Bessent noted that India’s lower tariffs and minimal trade barriers made negotiations easier.
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U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a roadmap on Tuesday to advance trade talks, with a 26% tariff potentially coming into effect in July if no deal is reached.
Talks With China Stalled
Bessent also revealed that trade talks with China have stalled. With tariff rates on Chinese imports exceeding 145%, Bessent emphasized that both sides see these levels as unsustainable. However, he insisted that the U.S. would not unilaterally reduce duties.
Bessent added that the U.S. is continuing negotiations with 15 major trading partners aside from China, including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom.
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