US-China trade tensions: No negotiations confirmed

[WORLD] China’s Ministry of Commerce on Thursday refuted claims of ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, stating that reports suggesting progress in bilateral discussions are “not based on facts.”

“If the U.S. genuinely seeks to resolve the current issues, it must listen to the rational perspectives of the international community and domestic stakeholders, fully dismantle all unilateral tariffs on Chinese goods, and engage in dialogue on an equal footing,” ministry spokesperson He Yadong said during a press briefing.

The remarks come amid heightened trade tensions between the two countries. Since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s second term, the United States has significantly raised tariffs on Chinese imports. Between January and April 2025, the average effective tariff rate jumped from 2.5% to approximately 27%, with baseline duties on Chinese goods soaring to 145%. In response, China has introduced retaliatory tariffs of at least 125% on U.S. imports and has restricted the export of rare earth elements critical to various high-tech sectors.

President Trump this week signaled a potential shift in stance, expressing openness to reviewing the elevated tariffs. He also claimed that senior Chinese officials had reached out to Washington to initiate preliminary dialogue—a claim now contradicted by Beijing.

The administration continues to justify its tariff strategy as a means to combat issues such as illicit drug trade and illegal immigration, while also promoting domestic manufacturing. However, this rationale has drawn criticism from economists who argue the administration’s interpretation of trade deficits is misguided.

The broader economic implications of the escalating tariff conflict have been significant. Both the Federal Reserve and the OECD have revised global growth forecasts downward, citing trade uncertainty. Fears of a global recession have been exacerbated by a sweeping 10% tariff on all U.S. imports introduced on April 5, coupled with increased duties on products from 57 countries—moves that precipitated a sharp downturn in global markets.

Despite the volatility, there are tentative signs of a possible softening in the U.S. approach. While the additional tariffs of 11% to 50% on imports from 57 countries were slated to take effect on April 9, they were promptly suspended for 90 days—excluding China. This delay suggests that while Washington may be open to future negotiations, the road ahead remains uncertain and laden with obstacles.