The Trump administration announced on Thursday the establishment of preliminary trade frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala. These agreements aim to enhance the ability of U.S. companies to export industrial and agricultural products to these nations. A senior administration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the frameworks focus on reducing non-tariff barriers, eliminating tariffs on American-made goods, and preventing the imposition of digital services taxes on U.S. firms. Additionally, select products from these countries will receive tariff relief, and import licenses will be streamlined. Intellectual property rights issues will also be addressed. The agreements are expected to be finalized and signed within approximately two weeks. This initiative is part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to reshape global trade dynamics through the use of tariffs. Argentine President Javier Milei praised the agreement as a significant milestone, marking Argentina’s first bilateral trade framework with the U.S. in nearly a decade. Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo also welcomed the deal, noting that 70% of Guatemalan exports to the U.S. would face zero tariffs under the framework. The U.S. currently imposes a 10% tariff on goods from Argentina, El Salvador, and Guatemala, and a 15% tariff on Ecuadorian products. The administration has indicated that tariffs on commodities like coffee, cocoa, and bananas could be reduced, addressing affordability concerns for U.S. consumers.
Trump administration says it has trade frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador and Guatemala
