China said Friday it is open to talks, but U.S. tariffs remain a key roadblock to any progress, as the Chinese Commerce Ministry reviews recent approaches from Washington about restarting trade discussions amid rising U.S.-China trade tensions.
However, the ministry emphasized that steep U.S. tariffs some reaching 145% must be removed before serious talks can begin.
A ministry statement warned that without tariff relief, Beijing will remain firm and continue countermeasures. Also, U.S.-China trade tensions escalated after Washington unilaterally launched the tariff war, China noted.
It added that the U.S. must show sincerity by ending what it calls unfair trade practices.
Unnamed Chinese officials confirmed the U.S. had sent multiple messages expressing interest in resuming negotiations.
Yet, without changes to Trump’s tariff hikes, Beijing views the offers as lacking credibility.
“Coercion or blackmail disguised as dialogue won’t work,” China stated firmly in Friday’s message.
Despite China’s holiday closure, U.S. futures rose Friday, alongside gains in Hong Kong and Taiwan markets.
As of Friday, the Trump administration has ended duty-free imports from China, increasing prices and shipping delays.
In retaliation, China raised tariffs on U.S. goods—some as high as 125%—and cut critical mineral exports.
Beijing also halted imports of many American farm products and sought alliances to oppose U.S. pressure.
U.S.-China trade tensions have created uncertainty, affecting global supply chains, investor confidence, and consumer spending.
Trump has introduced sweeping tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, and other imports to shift manufacturing back home.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, leading trade efforts, expects China will return to the table soon.
In a Fox Business interview, Bessent said China’s broader economic behavior—not just tariffs—remains a key concern.
He cited intellectual property theft and cyberattacks as major issues fueling U.S.-China trade tensions.
Bessent remains confident a deal is possible, saying, “Everything is on the table” for future relations. Still, China appears unwilling to compromise, releasing strong anti-U.S. messages on social media this week.
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