The Chinese Foreign Ministry has called on the United States to abandon its approach of threats and pressure if it is serious about resuming dialogue on trade, following comments by US President Donald Trump suggesting a potential reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods.

Washington had imposed a 145% levy on Chinese goods, while Beijing responded with a 125% tax on American exports. The US, at the time, followed with a suggestion of a 100% increase in US tariffs, though no formal breakdown had yet been offered to explain how the cumulative 245% figure is calculated.

Speaking at a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, "If the US truly wants to resolve the issue through dialogue and talks, it should abandon threats and pressure and engage in dialogue with China based on equality and mutual respect."

The remarks come in response to Trump’s recent statement that the US would eventually need to lower tariffs on Chinese imports, acknowledging that “Washington and Beijing cannot do business with each other without this step.”

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The issue of tariffs has long been a sticking point in US-China trade relations, with the Trump administration imposing hundreds of billions of dollars in duties during its trade war with Beijing. Trump’s latest remarks suggest a potential shift in rhetoric as trade negotiations with China become a renewed topic in the US political landscape.

Beijing has consistently criticized what it views as unilateral and coercive measures from Washington, calling instead for a framework of mutual respect and reciprocal benefit. “Dialogue based on equality” remains a central condition for any future trade talks, Chinese officials have reiterated.

Tensions between the two sides remain high amid broader disputes over technology, security, and global supply chains. Analysts note that while Trump’s comments indicate possible openness to tariff reduction, they come alongside continued calls in the US for a tougher stance on Beijing.

The de minimis exemption

Earlier this month, the Trump administration terminated the de minimis exemption for Chinese imports, eliminating the previous allowance for low-value parcels to enter the US duty-free. This policy change has led to increased costs and delays for consumers and businesses, particularly affecting e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu. In response, these companies have begun shifting their logistics operations to US-based warehouses to mitigate the impact of the new tariffs. 

The broader economic repercussions of the trade war are becoming increasingly evident. Major US companies such as Mattel and Ford have reported significant financial strains due to the heightened tariffs. Mattel plans to raise prices on certain toys to offset the increased costs, while Ford anticipates a $1.5 billion hit to its operating profit this year. These developments underscore the widespread impact of the ongoing trade disputes on various sectors of the US economy. 

Despite the mounting economic pressures, both Washington and Beijing have maintained firm stances. China's Commerce Ministry has stated that while it is evaluating US overtures for trade talks, the removal of steep US-imposed tariffs, which have reached up to 145%, is a prerequisite for genuine dialogue. Beijing continues to call for negotiations based on mutual respect and equality, rejecting any form of coercion or pressure tactics.