On March 16, Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that after imposing tariffs on its major trading partners, the US could enter into bilateral talks with countries to establish new trade agreements.

Following President Trump's decision to impose a 200% tariff on European wine, cognac, and other alcohol imports, tensions have escalated in the ongoing global trade war, prompting concerns of a looming recession.

Rubio emphasized that the US would respond to nations that have imposed tariffs on American goods, stressing that the trade conflict affects all countries, not singling out any specific ones.

He expressed plans for engaging in bilateral negotiations globally to establish fair and reciprocal trade arrangements, aiming to replace the current status quo and promote fairness for both sides. Rubio highlighted the necessity of resetting the baseline to create a more equitable trade environment, inviting other nations to cooperate in crafting mutually beneficial agreements for the future.