U.S. and China open talks to ease tariff tensions
The United States has reached out to China to discuss potential negotiations on disputed tariffs, a spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing stated on Friday. Chinese authorities are "currently evaluating" Washington's proposals and expect "sincerity" and readiness from the U.S. to remove the imposed tariffs.
"If the US wants to talk, it should show its sincerity to do so, be prepared to correct its wrong practices and cancel unilateral tariffs," stated an unnamed spokesman for the ministry.
Beijing: The U.S. proposed negotiations
The spokesman argued that the lack of this gesture "will further damage the mutual trust between the two sides." He emphasized that "saying one thing and doing another, or even attempting coercion and blackmail under the guise of talks will not work."
The trade dispute escalated in April when U.S. tariffs, reaching as high as 145% on many Chinese products, went into effect. In response, Beijing imposed tariffs of 125% on imports from the U.S.
Although some high-tech products, like smartphones, have received temporary exemptions from additional charges, dozens of countries face a July deadline to reach an agreement with Washington to avoid higher rates.
Will Beijing change its mind?
So far, Chinese authorities have denied conducting any talks with the U.S., despite claims from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump that both sides are in contact.
On Thursday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed confidence in an interview with Fox Business Network that "[he is] confident that the Chinese will want to reach a deal. And as I said, this is going to be a multi-step process," adding that "de-escalation" is necessary first.
China has firmly stated that it will fight in the trade war to the end if necessary. At the same time, Beijing acknowledges that global economic upheaval is burdening the Chinese economy, which has long relied on exports, and companies oriented toward foreign markets are encountering difficulties.
