China has indicated that it is “evaluating” the possibility of trade discussions with the US, particularly against the backdrop of the ongoing trade war initiated by the Trump administration. However, it is urging the US to demonstrate “integrity” to build trust.
The Chinese Embassy shared on social platform X that, “China is currently assessing the situation as the US has recently reached out through various channels, expressing its wish to consult over tariff issues.”
The ministry warned that if the US does not revise its misleading and unilateral tariff strategies in these dialogues, it would signify a total disregard for integrity and further erode mutual trust. It emphasized that there is no opportunity for China to engage in other discussions or allow the meetings to serve as a guise for coercive measures.
Earlier last month, President Trump altered global trade dynamics by implementing new tariffs impacting nearly all foreign trade partners. While he lifted many mutual tariffs, China, a major trading partner, was notably excluded. The existing 10% base rate still applies to most imports.
Initially, earlier this year, Trump had increased tariffs on Chinese goods to 20%, asserting that the move was part of an effort to combat the influx of illegal drugs like fentanyl. This intensified the trade conflict with the world’s second-largest economy, culminating in a “liberation day” tariff increase alongside a retaliatory measure that raised China’s import taxes by 145%.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent mentioned that U.S. officials are actively trying to negotiate a tariff deal, yet China has been sidelined in these talks.
He noted, “We tackle them in batches, but as you might be aware, we’re nearing 100. We’re collaborating with our top 17 to expedite the process.”
In a significant decision, the administration has opted to eliminate the De Minimis tariff exemption for low-value goods coming from China, a crucial loophole for online retailers like Temu, Shein, and Amazon.
China is reportedly exploring ways to respond to U.S. apprehensions regarding its involvement in the fentanyl trade. Wang Xiao Hong, a key security figure under President Xi Jinping, recently inquired of the Trump administration about what it expects from China concerning the chemical elements of fentanyl, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Despite pressure from Chinese officials, Trump seems hopeful about the prospect of reaching a trade agreement with China.
