President Donald Trump has announced two new trade agreements with the Philippines and Indonesia, continuing his campaign to open foreign markets to American exports while imposing aggressive tariffs on incoming goods.
“It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs,” Trump posted on Truth Social following a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The agreement gives American producers unrestricted access to the Philippine market. In return, Philippine goods entering the U.S. will now face a 19% tariff—slightly lower than the 20% Trump originally threatened. Despite the reduction, the move still represents a significant reversal of previous trade terms and is expected to dramatically shift the trade balance.
In 2024, the U.S. ran a $5 billion trade deficit with the Philippines, importing $14.2 billion in goods while exporting just $9.3 billion. The Philippines exports electronics and office machine parts to the U.S., while America exports food products and semiconductors back to the island nation.
Shortly after announcing the Philippine deal, Trump revealed a similar trade agreement with Indonesia.
“It is agreed that Indonesia will be Open Market to American Industrial and Tech Products, and Agricultural goods, by eliminating 99% of their Tariff Barriers,” Trump said.
These deals come as part of Trump’s broader August 1st ultimatum — warning multiple nations to accept fair trade or face steep tariff penalties. The tactic appears to be yielding rapid results. The administration recently secured a comparable deal with Vietnam, featuring zero tariffs for U.S. exports and a 20% tariff on all Vietnamese imports.
Trump also signaled a deeper military alliance with the Philippines, writing, “In addition, we will work together Militarily.”
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with President Marcos on Monday, reaffirming the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.
“Our storied alliance has never been stronger or more essential than it is today,” Hegseth said. “We do not seek confrontation, but we are and will be ready and resolute.”
Trump praised Marcos, calling him “Highly Respected in his Country” and “a very good, and tough, negotiator.”
“We extend our warmest regards to the wonderful people of The Philippines!” Trump added.
The post Trump Secures Trade Deals In Philippines And Indonesia appeared first on Real News Now.
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