The Impressive TimesWashington, May 10– In a bold prelude to upcoming trade negotiations with China, US President Donald Trump took to social media on Friday to float the idea of imposing an 80% tariff on Chinese goods, hinting at a potential shift in Washington’s trade policy just before bilateral talks in Switzerland.
“80% Tariff on China seems right,” Trump posted, reigniting headlines around the ongoing economic standoff between the world’s two largest economies.
The upcoming talks, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng, mark the first formal engagement since the return of steep tariffs by both sides earlier this year. Since Trump’s return to office, the US has slapped 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting China to retaliate with 125% levies on select American goods.
Despite this fiery rhetoric, signs of possible de-escalation are emerging. China’s Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying stated that Beijing holds “full confidence” in its ability to navigate trade discussions with the US.
“The atmosphere suggests both sides may be open to transactional compromises, though major breakthroughs remain unlikely,” noted analysts watching the developments. Former US trade negotiator Stephen Olson commented that any tariff rollbacks are expected to be “minor,” and the structural tensions between the two powers would take much longer to resolve.
Trump emphasized the importance of market access, urging China to “open up its market” to US businesses. He further hinted that the decision on tariff reductions would rest with “Scott B” — referring to Treasury Secretary Bessent.
On Thursday, Trump previewed the talks by saying he expected a “very friendly” meeting with the Chinese delegation.
This round of negotiations comes shortly after the UK became the first nation to finalize a trade deal with the Trump administration. That agreement included reduced tariffs on British automobiles and limited-duty-free access for UK steel and aluminium, in exchange for greater US beef exports and other goods.
In April, Trump announced sweeping “reciprocal tariffs” targeting dozens of nations. However, he paused their enforcement for 90 days, giving room for bilateral talks — including the current discussions with China — to take place.
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