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yesterday

Trump Proposes 80% Tariff on China Ahead of Geneva Trade Talks

As U.S. and Chinese officials prepare for key negotiations, President Trump suggests a significant tariff reduction, delegating the decision to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

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U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick speaks during a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 6, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis/File Photo
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Overview

  • President Trump floated reducing the tariff on Chinese imports from 145% to 80% ahead of high-level trade discussions in Switzerland this weekend.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will lead the U.S. delegation in Geneva, meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to explore de-escalation opportunities.
  • China has maintained 125% retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, while its exports rose 8.1% in April despite ongoing trade tensions.
  • Trump’s proposed tariff reduction is seen as a potential negotiating tactic, though it remains unclear whether the 80% rate would be final or interim.
  • The talks aim to ease the trade conflict between the world's two largest economies, with no comprehensive deal expected but hopes for progress in reducing tensions.