Trump Announces Trade Accord with Indonesia
Nation Targeted for Tariffs Now Claims Deal with U.S.
President **Donald Trump** declared a trade agreement has been reached with Indonesia, a day after threatening the Southeast Asian nation with substantial tariffs.
Direct Presidential Negotiation Claimed
In a post on Truth Social, **Trump** stated, “Great deal, for everybody, just made with Indonesia. I dealt directly with their highly respected President. DETAILS TO FOLLOW!!!”
Great deal, for everybody, just made with Indonesia. I dealt directly with their highly respected President. DETAILS TO FOLLOW!!!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 23, 2024
Tariff Threat Preceded Agreement
The announcement follows a threat from **Trump** last week to impose a 32 percent tariff rate on Indonesia, effective August 1. This letter was sent directly to the Indonesian president.
Broader Tariff Strategy Continues
Similar tariff threat letters, with rates ranging from 20 percent to 50 percent, were dispatched this month to approximately two dozen trading partners, including Canada, Japan, and Brazil. A 50 percent tariff on copper was also proposed.
Pattern of Backtracking Noted
The August 1 deadline provides targeted nations an opportunity to negotiate agreements that could mitigate the proposed tariffs. Observers have pointed to a pattern where **Trump** has previously retreated from similar tariff threats.
Previous Trade Deals Secured
Since implementing his tariff policy, **Trump** has successfully finalized trade agreements with China, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.
EU Finalizes Indonesia Trade Pact
This development comes as Indonesia and the European Union recently reached a political agreement to advance a free trade deal. Analysts anticipate this accord could be enacted by 2027, following a decade of negotiations.
EU Emphasizes Partnership Values
In a statement that appeared to subtly address **Trump**’s tariff actions, European Commission President **Ursula von der Leyen** remarked in Brussels, “We are sending a strong message about the importance of predictable long-term partnerships that are built on trust, reciprocity, transparency and shared values.”
Global Trade Landscape in Flux
The ongoing trade negotiations highlight the dynamic nature of global commerce. For context, in 2023, the United States imported approximately $10.1 billion worth of goods from Indonesia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.