Washington: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hinted Wednesday that President Donald Trump’s temporary pause on “reciprocal” tariffs could be extended for those engaging in trade negotiations with the United States “in good faith.”

According to Yonhap News Agency, Bessent made the remarks during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing as Trump’s 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs, including 25 percent duties on South Korea, is set to end on July 8. Bessent stated that there are 18 important trading partners, and it is highly likely that countries or trading blocs negotiating in good faith could see the suspension date extended.

He emphasized that the decision would ultimately be up to President Trump, but expressed his belief that extensions would be possible for those negotiating in good faith. “If someone is not negotiating, then we will not,” Bessent added, noting that many of the trading partners have made “good offers.”

Seoul has been actively seeking a comprehensive deal with Washington concerning new U.S. tariffs, South Korea’s non-tariff barriers, and bilateral economic and industrial cooperation before the pause on reciprocal tariffs concludes. In a recent phone call, newly elected South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Trump agreed to collaborate on achieving a satisfactory trade agreement swiftly.

The Trump administration announced the reciprocal tariffs in April, placing South Korea on a list of “worst offenders.” Although the tariffs took effect on April 9, a three-month pause was issued shortly afterward to facilitate negotiations.