US‑China tariff talks: Beijing demands sincerity from Washington
The United States contacted China regarding potential negotiations on disputed tariffs, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing said on Friday. The Chinese authorities are "currently evaluating" Washington's proposals and expect "sincerity" and a willingness from the US to withdraw the imposed tariffs.
"If the US wants to talk, it should show its sincerity to do so, be prepared to correct its wrong practices and cancel unilateral tariffs," said the unnamed spokesperson in a statement from the ministry.
Beijing: the US proposed negotiations
The spokesperson argues that the lack of this gesture "will further damage the mutual trust between the two sides." He emphasised that "saying one thing and doing another, or even attempting coercion and blackmail under the guise of talks will not work."
The trade dispute escalated in April when the US tariffs of up to 145% on many Chinese products took effect. In response, Beijing imposed tariffs of 125% on imports from the US.
Although some high-tech products, such as smartphones, received temporary exemption from additional fees, dozens of countries face a July deadline to reach an agreement with Washington to avoid higher rates.
Will Beijing change its mind?
So far, the authorities of the People's Republic of China have denied engaging in any talks with the US, despite claims from the administration of US President Donald Trump that both sides are in contact.
On Thursday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed confidence in an interview with Fox Business Network that " [he is] confident that the Chinese will want to reach a deal. And as I said, this is going to be a multi-step process," adding that "de-escalation" is necessary first.
China has firmly stated that it will fight in the trade war to the end, if necessary. At the same time, Beijing admits that global economic turmoil is weighing on the Chinese economy, which has long depended on exports, and companies focused on foreign markets are encountering difficulties.
