Trump drops huge hints on China tariff trade deal
President Donald Trump urged China to open its market to the United States on Friday as trade negotiations heat up in the wake of Trump’s retaliatory tariffs, which were imposed on dozens of nations around the world.
Just one day after hinting that tariffs on China could drop soon, Trump suggested slashing the 145% tariffs on China nearly in half.
“80% Tariff on China seems right! Up to Scott B,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, referring to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
“CHINA SHOULD OPEN UP ITS MARKET TO USA — WOULD BE SO GOOD FOR THEM!!! CLOSED MARKETS DON’T WORK ANYMORE!!!” Trump said in another post.
While unveiling the first-of-its-kind historic trade deal with the UK on Thursday, Trump indicated the tariffs on China would not increase anymore.
“It’s at 145, so we know it’s coming down,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “I think we’re going to have a very good relationship.”
Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are expected to meet with Chinese officials over the weekend in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss a possible trade agreement.
“At President Trump’s direction, I am negotiating with countries to rebalance our trade relations to achieve reciprocity, open new markets, and protect America’s economic and national security,” Greer said. “I look forward to having productive meetings with some of my counterparts as well as visiting with my team in Geneva, who all work diligently to advance U.S. interests on a range of multilateral issues.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian confirmed the meeting with Trump administration officials, but said China “firmly” opposes Trump’s increased tariffs.
“The meeting between Chinese and US senior officials on economic matters was requested by the US side. Recently, the US has said repeatedly it wants to negotiate with China,” Lin said in a post on X.
“This tariff war was started by the US. China firmly opposes the US’s tariff hikes. Meanwhile, China is open to dialogue, but any dialogue must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit,” he continued. “To pressure or coerce China in whatever way simply does not work. We will resolutely safeguard our legitimate interests and uphold international fairness and justice.”
