US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he may exempt several countries from the reciprocal tariffs set to be unveiled on April 2. Describing the upcoming policy rollout as “Liberation Day,” Trump hinted at a flexible approach to the levies while confirming that additional tariffs will be introduced in the coming days.

“I may give a lot of countries breaks, but it's reciprocal,” Trump stated. “But we might be even nicer than that. You know we've been very nice to a lot of countries for a long time. But I call it Liberation Day. April 2nd is liberation day.”

The president's comments suggest that while the administration remains committed to applying reciprocal tariffs on nations with significant trade imbalances with the United States, there is room for negotiation and selective exemptions. The Wall Street Journal reported that sector-specific exclusions are expected, though the core of the trade policy will remain focused on a targeted set of countries that account for the bulk of foreign trade with the US.

Trump also revealed that further tariffs—particularly in the automotive, lumber, and semiconductor sectors—will be introduced over the next few days. These additional levies are part of the broader strategy to reshape US trade relationships and address what the administration sees as longstanding unfair practices.

Despite the approaching April 2 deadline, Trump clarified that not all tariffs would be included in the initial rollout, leaving room for staggered implementation and future adjustments.

The mixed messaging reflects the balancing act the administration faces in applying pressure on foreign trading partners while maintaining diplomatic and economic flexibility. Businesses and foreign governments are now watching closely for specifics as “Liberation Day” nears, with trade policy continuing to dominate headlines and market conversations.

As of now, detailed lists of exempt countries and affected sectors have not been released. However, officials have indicated more clarity will come as the administration finalizes the structure of the tariff plan.