China calls for 'respect' as trade talks hinge on US steps
China is open to trade talks and negotiations on tariffs, but expects the Trump administration to take appropriate steps beforehand, Bloomberg reports. A source familiar with Beijing's government claims that, above all, the US must show greater respect.
What do you need to know?
- According to press reports, China is open to talks if the US shows respect.
- Beijing also wants the United States to appoint a contact person. This representative, who will negotiate on behalf of the Chinese side, should have the President's support.
- China is engaged in a trade war with the US, with both sides raising tariffs.
According to Bloomberg's source, China is open to trade discussions and negotiations on tariffs with the United States, but under certain conditions. Beijing demands "more respect" from the Americans by "reining in disparaging remarks by members of his cabinet." The agency recalls a statement by Trump's deputy, JD Vance, who, in an interview with Fox News, referred to the Chinese as "peasants," which caused a sharp reaction from Beijing.
China sets conditions for the US
The Bloomberg informant also highlights that China demands a "more consistent" stance from the US, including on issues like Taiwan and easing concerns about technological development (the United States has been preventing Beijing from acquiring the latest chips and other advanced technologies).
Beijing also insists that the United States appoint a contact person to lead the negotiations, who will have the President's support and assist in preparing an agreement between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.
- The ball is in China's court: China needs to make a deal with us, we don't have to make a deal with them, - said the White House press secretary on Tuesday.
The United States has imposed high tariffs on China. In retaliation, Beijing raised tariffs on American goods. The current tariffs on imports from China to the US are 145%, while Chinese retaliatory tariffs on all American goods are 125%.
Trump wants to respond to China. He plans to source metals from an unusual place
On Wednesday, China’s Ministry of Human Resources announced the appointment of Li Chenggang as the representative for trade negotiations and the Vice Minister of Commerce. His predecessor, Wang Shouwen, was considered a tough negotiator and clashed with American officials during previous negotiations, according to Reuters.
