President Donald Trump has indicated a potential shift in U.S. tariff policy towards China, signaling a willingness to reduce the current 145% tariff rate. In a post on Truth Social, he suggested an 80% tariff might be appropriate, mentioning Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in connection with this discussion. This comment comes ahead of upcoming trade talks in Geneva, Switzerland, where Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with Chinese officials.
Trump’s remarks hint at flexibility in negotiations, noting that the current tariff levels cannot be raised further. While an 80% tariff would still represent a significant duty above previous rates, it reflects a possible easing from the current high. The U.S. had initially imposed a 20% levy on Chinese imports in response to concerns over fentanyl trafficking, which escalated to the staggering 145% under his administration.
Trump’s tariff strategy has maintained a turbulent character. On a recent Thursday, he also announced ongoing discussions for a trade agreement with the U.K., which reportedly aims to retain the existing 10% tariff on all countries while potentially expanding U.S. agricultural exports such as beef and ethanol—albeit without confirmed commitments from the U.K. to increase those imports.
These developments underscore Trump’s unconventional approach to trade negotiations, characterized by high tariffs and last-minute adjustments as he engages with international partners. As discussions with China approach, the potential for tariff reductions could signal a shift in U.S.-China trade relations, but uncertainty remains regarding the ultimate outcomes.
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