China stated Thursday that no trade negotiations are currently underway with the U.S., contradicting earlier signals from Washington suggesting a possible easing of tensions.
“There are absolutely no economic or trade talks happening with the U.S.,” said Ministry of Commerce Spokesperson He Yadong. He urged dismissal of any claims about progress in negotiations and called on the U.S. to cancel all unilateral tariffs.
Despite comments from former President Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hinting at a thaw in relations, tensions remain high. Earlier this month, the U.S. imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, prompting retaliatory measures from Beijing.
China’s Foreign Ministry echoed the commerce ministry’s stance, stressing that talks can only resume if China is treated as an equal partner.
China has also warned other nations against aligning too closely with Washington at its expense.
Several financial institutions have downgraded China’s GDP forecasts in response to rising trade tensions. The Chinese government is now focusing on helping exporters sell domestically.
Economist Jianwei Xu from Natixis remarked that meaningful talks would likely require the U.S. to significantly lower tariffs — a politically risky move for Trump.