I did see hear Trump mention that about replacing taxes with tariffs, but Congress holds primary authority over taxation, and while Trump can impose some tariffs unilaterally via laws like the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, a full shift away from income taxes would require legislative approval—something even many Republicans might resist due to deficit concerns.
So to say "You're wrong" is ludicrous, at this stage.
Smaller economies like Vietnam (46%) or India (26%) might have no choice, than to negotiate? The U.S. is a huge market for them—Vietnam sends 30% of its exports there—and they lack the clout to sustain a prolonged fight. They’re more likely to negotiate, especially if Trump’s team targets their surpluses.
Trump may offer real concessions, which he’s hinted at with lines like “I may give a lot of countries breaks.” Japan, with a 24% tariff, is leaning toward negotiation over retaliation, likely due to its U.S. security alliance.
The pattern so far: countries negotiate when the U.S. has leverage (market access, security ties) and the cost of defiance outweighs the pain of compliance.