Trump's comments further pointed to a diminished appetite for sharply higher across-the-board tariffs on dozens of countries after markets reacted violently to their introduction on April 2.

In a bid to reassure jittery markets, the Trump White House is telling business leaders, investors and media that multiple countries are reaching out to strike new trade deals, Fox Business reporter Charles Gasparino said on Sunday.

President Trump said he is optimistic that the U.S. can reach a deal on tariffs with China. He also appeared to signal he might lower the current 145% tariffs. Photo: Chris Kleponis/Pool via CNP/Zuma