US President Donald Trump signaled on Friday that he might lower tariffs on Chinese imports, as the two rival superpowers prepare for trade discussions this weekend.
“80% Tariff on China seems right!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform, suggesting a reduction from the current 145%, where cumulative duties on some goods have reached as high as 245%.
He added that the decision was “Up to Scott B.,” referring to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is scheduled to meet with China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng in Geneva this weekend to attempt to de-escalate the trade tensions impacting global markets.
In his post, Trump did not clarify whether he viewed 80% as a final, definitive tariff level upon the resolution of the trade conflict, or simply as an interim measure.
In a separate post, written entirely in capital letters, Trump asserted, “China should open up its market to USA — would be so good for them!!! Closed markets don’t work anymore!!!”
Trump’s comments followed his announcement of a trade agreement with Britain, which he described as historic, the first such deal with any nation since he implemented sweeping global tariffs last month.
Trump indicated that the British agreement would be the first of many, and expressed optimism that productive outcomes could also be achieved in ongoing discussions with the EU and China.
Numerous countries have sought talks with Washington to mitigate the impact of Trump’s tariffs, which range from 10% for many nations to significantly higher rates for China, his primary target.
