Donald Trump’s approach to negotiations with China may have been exaggerated as trade tensions persist between the two nations.
Upon his return to the White House, Trump made it clear that he intended to implement significant changes, with ‘Liberation Day’ (April 2) marking a decisive shift.
On that day, he unveiled a vast economic strategy, detailing numerous new tariffs he planned to impose or raise on countries globally.
China, being greatly affected, retaliated swiftly. Tariffs on Chinese goods had already been set at 25 percent, and on ‘Liberation Day,’ these were increased by 34 percent, amounting to a total of 54 percent.
In response, China quickly imposed its own measures against the United States, applying a 15 percent tariff on American farm products, 10 percent on crude oil and agricultural machinery, and 34 percent on all US goods.
As a result, Trump increased the tariff on Chinese imports to 145 percent, then 245 percent, while pausing tariff plans for other countries for 90 days. In turn, China raised tariffs on US goods to 125 percent and decreased exports of rare earth minerals.
Both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have expressed determination not to back down, with China stating its readiness to “fight till the end,” while Trump remarked that China has “played it wrong.”
When questioned by reporters about the escalating dispute, Trump stated his intention to be amicable with China, expressing optimism for cooperation.
On Tuesday, April 22, he commented: “No, no, we’re going to be very nice. They’re going to be very nice, and we’ll see what happens. But ultimately, they have to make a deal, because otherwise they’re not going to be able to deal in the United States, and we want them involved.”
A few days later, Trump mentioned having a recent conversation with Xi, though he did not provide details on the topics discussed.
In an interview with Time published on Friday, April 25, Trump stated that Xi had attempted to reach out, noting: “He’s called. And I don’t think that’s a sign of weakness on his behalf.”
However, Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, countered Trump’s claims, stating (via Reuters): “As far as I know, the two heads of state have not called each other recently.”
Guo added, “I want to reiterate that China and the United States are not engaged in consultations or negotiations on the tariff issue.”
CNN reports indicate that the last recorded phone conversation between the two leaders was on January 17, before Trump’s inauguration.