U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at a potential reduction in tariffs on Chinese imports, suggesting an 80% rate, down from current cumulative levels that, in some cases, exceed 145%.
“80% Tariff on China seems right!” Trump posted Friday on his Truth Social platform, sparking speculation about a possible shift in his hardline trade stance.
The remark comes ahead of a high-level meeting in Geneva this weekend between U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng, aimed at easing ongoing trade tensions.
Trump did not clarify whether the 80% figure was intended as a final rate or a temporary measure during negotiations. In another post, written in all capital letters, he said, “CHINA SHOULD OPEN UP ITS MARKET TO USA – WOULD BE SO GOOD FOR THEM!!! CLOSED MARKETS DON’T WORK ANYMORE!!!”
The comments arrive just one day after Trump announced a new trade agreement with the United Kingdom, calling it a “historic” deal and the first formal pact since the U.S. introduced sweeping global tariffs last month.
Trump expressed optimism that ongoing negotiations with both the European Union and China could soon yield further agreements. Meanwhile, several countries are seeking talks with Washington in hopes of reducing or avoiding U.S. duties, which currently range from 10% for many nations to substantially higher rates for China — Trump’s primary trade target.
— AFP