President Trump on Friday indicated he is open to significantly reducing tariffs on Chinese imports, a shift that highlights the administration’s interest in easing tensions in the ongoing trade conflict following the recent “Liberation Day” tariff announcements. These tariffs have shaken financial markets, raised the specter of a possible recession, and weighed heavily on Trump’s public approval.
In a post on social media, Trump suggested that reducing the tariff rate on Chinese goods from 145 percent to 80 percent might be more appropriate, signaling a substantial decrease in the import tax burden. He tagged Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in the post, hinting that the final decision could rest with him.
The U.S. and China are preparing for trade discussions in Switzerland this weekend, with Bessent expected to lead the American delegation. The talks come at a time when both nations have escalated retaliatory tariffs, straining economic ties and dampening prospects for a quick resolution.
Earlier this year, Trump implemented sweeping reconciliation tariffs on imports from multiple countries, but paused many of them after global markets responded with steep declines. A uniform 10 percent tariff remains in place on goods from most countries, but China was singled out with much higher rates.
Beijing has responded with its own steep tariffs on U.S. products and has shown little urgency in returning to the negotiating table, despite the economic toll on both sides. The administration’s willingness to adjust the tariffs now appears aimed at restoring stability, finding common ground, and signaling flexibility as global economic pressures mount.
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