China Declares No Ongoing Tariff Discussions with Trump Administration

On Thursday, China refuted U.S. President Donald Trump's claims that the two nations are currently engaging in active discussions on tariffs. The Chinese government insists that the U.S. should withdraw its unilateral tariff measures.

The dispute over tariffs persists, with U.S. import taxes on Chinese goods peaking at up to 145%. This statement follows President Trump's remarks on Tuesday suggesting that these tariffs could be significantly reduced. However, China's response likened such hopes for progress to 'chasing the wind,' emphasizing that no such development exists.

Recent weeks have seen a rise in trade tensions between the U.S. and China, each imposing higher tariffs in a retaliatory exchange. Although the Trump administration seems open to a trade agreement, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated an optimism for a 'significant opportunity' in trade relations with China on Wednesday.

Earlier in the week, when asked about interactions with China, Trump conveyed that 'everything is ongoing.' Contradictorily, there had been no official negotiations, as per Bessent.

Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong stated, 'China remains consistent in its approach and welcomes talks based on mutual respect and equality. Claims of advancing in trade discussions with the U.S. are unfounded, akin to catching the wind.'

The U.S. has levied 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting China to retaliate with 125% tariffs on American goods. While other countries received a temporary 90-day suspension on tariffs amid negotiations with the U.S., China received no such reprieve.

Beijing's reaction involved increasing their own tariffs and imposing further economic measures, expressing a determination to confront these issues until resolved. This included restricting exports of rare earth materials and advancing multiple cases against the U.S. at the World Trade Organization.

Chinese authorities have been explicit that any discussions should include the removal of all tariffs currently placed on Chinese products.

'The unilateral decision of tariff hikes came from the U.S. To genuinely address these issues, the U.S. needs to acknowledge the rational global and domestic opinions, entirely remove these unilateral tariffs, and endeavor to resolve disputes through equitable discussions,' advocated spokesperson He.

In the face of these economic tensions towards China, President Trump expressed a willingness to approach Chinese President Xi Jinping amicably, suggesting, 'We will coexist amiably and, ideally, collaborate in a productive manner.'