WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced new trade agreements with Japan and the Philippines on Tuesday, heralding what he called a “very exciting time” for the United States as it strengthens economic ties with two key Pacific allies.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump disclosed a new trade arrangement with the Philippines following a White House meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom he described as a “very good and tough negotiator.” The agreement sets a 19% tariff on Philippine goods entering the U.S., slightly below the 20% rate Trump had previously threatened but above the 17% rate established in April. U.S. goods, in contrast, will face zero tariffs in the Philippines, which Trump described as an “OPEN MARKET” arrangement.
“It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal,” Trump posted on Truth Social, noting that the U.S. and the Philippines, which will mark 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, would also deepen military cooperation, though he provided no specifics.
Marcos, the first Southeast Asian leader to meet Trump in his second term, called the U.S. the Philippines’ “strongest, closest, most reliable ally” at the start of their Oval Office meeting. He offered no comment on the new tariff rate after Trump’s announcement.
Details of the trade deal remain sparse, mirroring recent U.S. agreements with Indonesia and Vietnam, according to Gregory Poling, a Southeast Asia expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. Poling noted that the Philippine government is likely unconcerned about the 19% tariff, as it keeps its goods competitive with those of neighboring countries.
The announcements come as Trump seeks to reshape U.S. trade policy in his second term, emphasizing bilateral deals and tariff adjustments to bolster American industries. Analysts await further details to assess the full impact of these agreements on global trade dynamics.
