China on Thursday firmly rejected reports that it is engaged in negotiations with the United States to reach a deal on tariffs, calling such claims “without factual basis.” The denials come amid renewed speculation in international media over possible behind-the-scenes talks aimed at de-escalating trade tensions.
“There is no consultation or negotiation on tariffs between China and the US, let alone any deal being reached,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun at a regular media briefing. Guo asserted that China’s position has remained “consistent and clear,” emphasizing that Beijing will not shy away from defending its interests. “We will fight if it is a must. Our doors are open if the US wants to talk; dialogue and negotiation must be based on equality, respect, and mutual benefit,” he added.
Echoing the Foreign Ministry’s stance, China’s Commerce Ministry also issued a strong denial. Spokesperson He Yadong told reporters that the reports of active discussions were unfounded. “If the US truly wants to resolve the issue, it should heed rational voices from the international community and domestic stakeholders, completely abolish all unilateral tariffs on China, and find a solution through equal dialogue,” He said.
The sharp rebuttals follow remarks from US President Donald Trump, who this week appeared open to reassessing the steep tariffs levied on Chinese goods during his second term. According to a report in the South China Morning Post, Trump hinted that Chinese officials had initiated contact with Washington to restart tariff talks.
Further fuelling speculation, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reportedly told investors during a closed-door meeting on Tuesday that the high tariff war with China is “unsustainable.” “No one thinks the current status quo is sustainable, at 145 and 125 [per cent], so I would posit that over the very near future, there will be a de-escalation,” Bessent was quoted as saying.
Currently, Chinese exports to the US face tariffs of up to 245 per cent, following retaliatory hikes from both sides. Meanwhile, Trump has temporarily paused tariffs against other countries, including India, for 90 days—further isolating Beijing on the global trade stage.
With neither side officially confirming any fresh negotiations, tensions remain high as the tariff war between the world’s two largest economies shows no signs of resolution.