China weighs trade talks with U.S. after tariff war

Beijing’s statements on the possibility of talks with Washington come after tariffs tightened. China insists on removal of unilateral tariffs as a condition for dialogue

China is considering whether to enter into trade negotiations with the United States after Washington imposed 145% tariffs. The possibility of dialogue was announced by a Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesman, who pointed out that senior U.S. officials have repeatedly expressed willingness to negotiate on the tariff issue.

According to the statement, the United States has recently sent messages to China through official channels, hoping to initiate talks. However, Beijing stressed that its position remains unchanged and that although there is an open door for dialogue, China will not accept any unilateral imposition.

China’s response: no concessions without tariff removal

The Chinese spokesman reiterated that Beijing is willing to negotiate, but only if the U.S. shows sincerity and is ready to correct unfair practices, especially the removal of unilaterally imposed duties. China has stated that any pressure or coercion during the negotiations will not be accepted.

Amid high tensions, Beijing also recalled that it was the United States that unilaterally initiated the tariff war. Despite this, the Chinese government has left open the possibility of negotiations while maintaining a hard line. “If we talk, the door will be open,” the spokesman said, but he made it clear that China is not willing to compromise on its fundamental positions.

China maintains hard line and responds with tariffs

In response to increased tariffs by the United States, China imposed 125 percent tariffs on some U.S. products. In addition, an official video underscored Beijing’s determination, stating that “bowing to a bully is like drinking poison to quench your thirst.” The message is clear: China will not accept threats or pressure and will continue to defend its position firmly.

Despite economic difficulties, China has resisted pressure. Trade tensions with the United States do not seem to have dented Beijing’s determination not to give in on its demands.

China’s economic difficulties and U.S. pressure

The effects of trade tensions are also beginning to be felt in the Chinese economy. In April, the country’s manufacturing activity was at its lowest level in two years, a clear sign that the trade war is negatively affecting the manufacturing sector.

Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for a de-escalation of the trade dispute with China. In an interview with Fox Business, Bessent spoke of a multi-step process that could lead to a rebalancing of trade relations. The secretary stressed that Beijing needs to review its economic model and fulfill past commitments, including those in the trade agreement signed with Donald Trump during his first administration.

The possible revision of the bilateral agreement

Bessent added that China’s economy is slowing “substantially” and that this could prompt Washington to revise “phase one” of the trade agreement. The goal, he said, is to reduce trade barriers deemed unfair and protectionist by China. The hope is that, over time, agreements can be reached that promote more balanced trade between the two countries.

In sum, the situation between the United States and China remains tense, with Beijing prepared to negotiate only if Washington removes unilateral tariffs. Although economic difficulties are being felt, China has no intention of giving in easily. It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming months, with both superpowers waiting for mutual signals of openness and sincerity.

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