President Donald Trump confirmed Thursday that the United States is in ongoing discussions with China over tariffs, offering cautious optimism for a potential resolution to the prolonged trade war.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump told reporters, “Yeah, we’re talking to China,” noting that Beijing had “reached out a number of times” to initiate contact.
The confirmation comes after the administration raised tariffs on Chinese imports to a staggering 145 percent, prompting swift retaliation from Beijing.
Trump remained evasive when asked if he had personally spoken with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating, “I’ve never said whether or not they’ve happened. It’s just not appropriate.”
When pressed further on whether Xi had directly contacted him, Trump added cryptically, “You’d think it was pretty obvious that he has, but we will talk about that soon.”
The trade standoff has rattled global markets, with investors closely watching for signs of de-escalation between the world’s two largest economies.
Despite the tension, Trump struck a hopeful tone, saying, “I think we’re going to make a very good deal with China,” during a White House appearance alongside visiting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The administration’s tariff battles extend beyond China, as talks with European allies also aim to roll back levies and ease transatlantic trade tensions.
As negotiations quietly unfold behind closed doors, the White House appears eager to project confidence without revealing critical diplomatic details.