China has firmly rejected claims of ongoing negotiations with the US regarding tariffs, labelling such conjectures as baseless. This statement follows President Donald Trump’s assertion that relations with China were progressing well and that tariffs on Chinese exports would significantly decrease from the current rate of 145 per cent.
During a routine press briefing, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, clarified that no discussions or negotiations were happening between the two nations on this issue. He emphasized China’s readiness for dialogue but insisted that any consultations should be built on mutual respect and equality.
Commerce Ministry spokesman He Yadong echoed this sentiment, asserting that any claims of progress in trade negotiations between China and the US were as unfounded as “trying to catch the wind.” Trump had stated earlier in the week that discussions with China were “active,” although his Treasury Secretary had mentioned the absence of formal negotiations.
When questioned about China’s denials, Trump claimed that a meeting had occurred that morning, though he did not clarify who participated. He has expressed potential interest in easing retaliatory tariffs on Chinese imports amid rising concerns among businesses and consumers that such taxes could drive up inflation and negatively impact the economy.
The Trump administration’s communication on this matter has been inconsistent. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently reported a productive meeting with South Korea regarding trade negotiations, hinting at the possibility of an agreement soon. However, Trump soon contradicted this by stating that negotiating with numerous countries simultaneously would be impractical, suggesting that prices for deals might soon be set unilaterally.
Currently, Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports stand at 145 per cent, a move that Beijing countered with its own 125 per cent tariffs on US goods. While Trump offered temporary reprieves on tariffs for other nations willing to negotiate, China remains the notable exception. Instead, it has opted to raise tariffs and implement various economic countermeasures while vowing to “fight to the end.”
China has restricted exports of rare earth minerals and initiated legal actions against the US at the World Trade Organisation. Additionally, China demands that any discussions concerning trade must include the removal of existing tariffs.
He pointed out that the US’s unilateral tariff measures initiated the current dispute and requested that the US recognise international calls for a fair resolution, cancelling all increased tariffs against China and engaging in productive dialogue.
Despite the ongoing economic tensions, Trump expressed a desire to maintain a congenial relationship with President Xi Jinping, commenting on the hope for a collaborative future.