No Scheduled Talks Between Trump and Xi Amid Intensifying Trade Dispute

According to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, there are currently no plans for a conversation between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping despite the intensification of the trade conflict.

Greer commented that, since April 2, dialogues at the leadership level have been anticipated, as highlighted by President Trump, but a concrete plan for discussions has not been set yet.

President Trump, on April 2, introduced a strategy where the United States would impose a baseline tariff of 10% on imported goods globally, while certain nations imposing tariffs on U.S. goods would face more severe charges. However, following significant disruptions in financial markets worldwide, he scaled back many of these tariffs. Nonetheless, tariffs on Chinese imports were increased to 125%, coupled with an additional 20% on fentanyl imports, bringing total tariffs on China to 145%.

In retaliation, China declared on Friday its intent to raise tariffs on U.S imports to a range between 84% to 125%. The Chinese government criticized the U.S. actions as a violation of international trade policies, dismissing the escalating tariffs as absurd.

Despite escalating tensions, Greer maintained that President Trump is focused on restoring American manufacturing and reshaping trade dynamics globally. According to Greer, China's decision to retaliate is the primary reason for the current predicament, suggesting that many other nations opted for negotiations rather than trading blows. Greer emphasized that it was China’s willingness, or agency, to react differently that brought about this hostile environment.

When addressing concerns about China's potential to divest its assets in the U.S., Greer pointed out America's long-standing dependency on China and the lack of equitable market access over the years. The apparent move by China to reduce economic ties comes as no surprise, and he asserted the need for the U.S. to bolster its economic resilience.

As the interim 90-day suspension unfolds, questions linger about its sufficiency for striking deals with numerous countries. Greer reassured that dialogues had commenced even before the tariff announcements, driven by the expectation of their imposition.

"We are in constant communication—day and night—with these countries, sharing information, considering offers, and providing feedback on establishing fair and mutual trade relations with the United States," Greer stated.