Trump says China initiated talks after trade tariff reached new heights: Reports

US President Donald Trump has stated that China reportedly initiated contact for renewed trade discussions following the United States’ recent imposition of higher tariffs of 245% on Chinese imports. 

According to reports, the US President indicated that any decision regarding the future of TikTok in the US would be delayed until trade-related matters with China are resolved.

President Trump is said to have expressed that tariffs on Chinese goods might not rise further and could potentially be reduced, depending on the direction of negotiations.

He reportedly emphasised his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and claimed that China had made several efforts to reach out. 

On the other hand, Chinese officials have called on the US to ease its approach to the trade conflict. China’s commerce ministry urged Washington to halt what it described as intense economic pressure, and to engage in trade talks with mutual respect and fairness.

According to statements from China’s Foreign Ministry, Beijing believes that if the US genuinely seeks resolution through dialogue, it should refrain from coercive tactics and return to the negotiating table on equal footing.

In recent months, the Trump administration has intensified trade pressure on Beijing, introducing heightened tariffs on a wide range of Chinese goods. A fact sheet released by the White House earlier this week noted that some Chinese products are now subject to duties of up to 245%.