U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order granting zero-tariff exemptions on more than 45 product categories to countries that have reciprocal trade framework deals with Washington. The list covers a wide range of items, including nickel, graphite, gold, electric vehicle components, pharmaceuticals, and medical compounds, while further exemptions are outlined for agriculture, aircraft parts, and generic pharmaceutical ingredients.

The order, effective from September 8 at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT), ensures tariff-free imports of goods not produced in sufficient quantity—or not produced at all—within the United States. By linking exemptions to negotiated deals, the move represents a strategic pivot: offering incentives for concessions rather than imposing blanket tariffs.

The policy follows agreements with key partners like Japan and the European Union, and authorizes U.S. trade agencies to waive duties without requiring new presidential orders. With this decision, Trump aims to reinforce his “reciprocal trade” agenda while reducing costs for critical U.S. industries.