Trump May Slash China Tariffs in Major Shift from 145% to 80%
Donald Trump, through a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, hinted he could slash tariffs on Chinese imports from their current peak of 145% to 80%, signaling a potential softening in his trade stance ahead of high-level talks with Beijing.
“80% Tariff on China seems right!” Trump posted on Friday. The US President added that the final decision was “Up to Scott B.,” referencing Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is expected to meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Geneva this weekend for trade discussions.
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The statement adds a new twist to Trump’s hardline approach to global trade, which has seen him impose sweeping tariffs on virtually all U.S. trading partners. Last month, Trump introduced a fresh wave of levies, targeting nations from Europe, Asia, to Africa, in what he called an effort to protect American jobs and manufacturing.
In another post, Trump asked China to open their market.
“CHINA SHOULD OPEN UP ITS MARKET TO USA – WOULD BE SO GOOD FOR THEM!!! CLOSED MARKETS DON’T WORK ANYMORE!!!”
While it’s unclear whether the proposed 80% is an interim or final rate, Trump’s tone may reflect pressure to ease market tensions.
