Readers: Are you making big purchases as a result of Trump’s latest trade plans?

In a stunning reversal, President Donald Trump paused reciprocal tariffs on most countries – with the exception of China, whose reciprocal tariffs he hiked to 125% – after the countries indicated an interest in negotiating trade deals with the U.S.

In a post on Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump said the pause on reciprocal tariffs will be in effect for 90 days, but he will keep a 10% baseline tariff on global imports. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed Trump will keep the lowered 10% tariff on most countries while escalating action against China.

The about-face comes after more than 75 countries reached out to the U.S. to “negotiate a solution” to his tariffs plans, Trump said in the Truth Social post. He attributed his decision to increase China’s reciprocal tariffs to a “lack of respect” and accused the country of “ripping off the U.S.A.”

Trump initially announced his tariff plans on April 2, which he dubbed “Liberation Day.” A 10% base global tariff began on April 5, and higher reciprocal tariffs on global imports were set to begin on April 9.

Before the Wednesday pause, reciprocal tariffs included 104% on products from China, 20% on the European Union, 24% on Japan and 25% on South Korea. Since the tariffs were announced, global markets were in meltdown, but after hitting pause, stocks surged.

Despite the surge, economists and bank leaders have sounded the alarm about a possible recession as a result of the tariffs. Economists also say consumers can expect to see increased prices as a result of the tariffs, as well as potentially weakened U.S. economic growth.

As markets continue to fluctuate, and uncertainty around the country’s economic health continues, we want to know how the tariffs are impacting your spending habits – particularly around large purchases. 

Some Americans rushed to purchase big-ticket items like cars, laptops, and appliances in anticipation of the tariffs. Now, with a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs (except for the 125% tariff on Chinese imports), we want to know what big purchases you’re thinking about making or have already made.

Tell us by filling out the form or e-mailing us at [email protected], and your response may appear in a future Boston.com article.