JUST IN: Scott Bessent Says US 'May Be Moving Faster Than I Thought' On Trade Deal With South Korea

Treasury Sec. Bessent

🔴 JUST IN: Scott Bessent Says U.S. 'May Be Moving Faster Than I Thought' on Trade Deal With South Korea

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed promising progress on a potential U.S.-South Korea trade deal, indicating that technical negotiations could begin as early as next week. Speaking during an Oval Office briefing alongside President Trump, Bessent noted that South Korean officials arrived "early" and "with their A-game," signaling a strong commitment to advancing bilateral trade discussions.

Positive Signals in U.S.–South Korea Trade Talks

“We had a very successful bilateral meeting with the Republic of South Korea today,” said Bessent. “We may be moving faster than I thought, and we’ll be talking technical terms as early as next week.”

The comments reflect a growing optimism within the administration that a formal agreement of understanding could be achieved sooner than expected. While specifics of the potential trade framework have not yet been disclosed, officials suggest it may involve sectors such as automotive exports, semiconductor technology, and agricultural imports.

President Trump: “They All Want to Talk Trade”

President Trump, who also commented on the progress, emphasized the strong international interest in U.S. trade deals. “We have many [leaders] there and they all want to meet. They want to meet about trade, and we are making some great inroads and great deals,” he said.

Trump is expected to meet several world leaders during his upcoming visit to Rome, with trade being a central topic of conversation.

A Strategic Partnership in the Indo-Pacific

A fast-tracked trade agreement with South Korea would be a strategic win for both nations, especially in the context of rising global tensions and shifting supply chains. South Korea remains a key ally in the Indo-Pacific region and a major player in technology, automotive innovation, and defense collaboration.

What’s Next?

U.S. and South Korean teams are expected to meet again soon to begin technical negotiations. If successful, the deal could reshape trade balances and further strengthen the economic partnership between the two countries.

Stay tuned for updates as these talks unfold and officials reveal more details about the proposed agreement.

FAQs: U.S.–South Korea Trade Deal Update by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent

Q1. What did Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent say about the U.S.–South Korea trade talks?
Scott Bessent stated that the U.S. and South Korea may be moving faster than expected toward a trade agreement. He mentioned that technical discussions could begin as early as next week.

Q2. What sectors might be included in the U.S.–South Korea trade deal?
While no official details have been released, the trade deal could involve key sectors such as automotive exports, semiconductor technologies, and agricultural imports.

Q3. Why is this trade deal significant?
A trade agreement with South Korea would strengthen economic ties between the two countries and reinforce U.S. strategy in the Indo-Pacific region. It also reflects efforts to streamline supply chains and counterbalance China’s regional influence.

Q4. What did President Trump say about the trade negotiations?
President Trump expressed optimism about international trade deals, noting that world leaders are eager to meet and discuss trade. He praised the progress made with South Korea.

Q5. When could the trade deal be finalized?
While an exact timeline is unclear, technical talks are expected to start soon. Bessent hinted that an agreement of understanding could be reached within a matter of weeks if progress continues.

Q6. How did South Korean officials approach the negotiations?
According to Bessent, South Korean officials arrived early and well-prepared, signaling their seriousness about reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

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