The United States has reportedly reached out to China in hopes of initiating discussions over President Donald Trump's steep 145% tariffs, according to Yuyuan Tantian, a social media account linked to Chinese state media. While the post suggests Beijing may be open to talks, Chinese officials maintain there are no current negotiations.
Despite public outrage and strong rhetoric denouncing the tariffs as "bullying," China has taken steps to soften their domestic impact, reportedly exempting some U.S. goods—such as pharmaceuticals, microchips, and jet engines—from its 125% retaliatory tariffs.
Beijing has remained firm in its position, stating it will not engage in talks unless Washington takes substantive action. “Yielding to Trump’s tariffs is like drinking poison,” Chinese state commentary warned. Yet, officials have left the door open, saying contact may be useful to gauge U.S. intentions.
Trump recently claimed that Chinese President Xi Jinping called him and that a deal was possible—assertions Beijing has denied. Chinese authorities continue to insist that any dialogue must be based on mutual respect and equality.
Nomura Securities warned that a prolonged export collapse could threaten up to 16 million jobs in China, highlighting the growing stakes of the trade conflict.