U.S. and China Resume Trade Talks in Switzerland
U.S. and China Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will travel to Switzerland this week to restart economic negotiations with China. The talks will be led by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and mark an effort to reestablish bilateral dialogue after years of tension.
First Official Negotiations Since the Trade War
The meeting was confirmed Tuesday by both nations. It marks the first formal round of negotiations since former President Donald Trump imposed steep tariffs on Chinese goods, triggering retaliation from Beijing. Tariffs reached as high as 145% on Chinese imports and up to 125% on U.S. exports.
Global Impact on Markets and Consumers
These measures disrupted global trade, fueled market uncertainty, and affected prices on essential goods like toys and clothing. Investors hope the renewed talks will ease tariff pressure and stabilize the flow of goods.
China Conditionally Open to Trade Talks With U.S.
China signaled its willingness to resume trade talks with U.S.—but emphasized that any progress would depend on Washington…
Trump Stands Firm on Trade
While Trump has hinted at openness to lowering tariffs, he also stated that the U.S. “loses nothing” by limiting trade with China. In an interview on Meet the Press, he remarked, “Little girls don’t need 30 dolls… what we were doing with China was absurd.
Signs of Openness from Beijing
The Chinese government announced Friday that it is considering resuming negotiations, marking the first concrete sign of willingness to engage. However, Bessent told Congress on Tuesday that “no direct negotiations with China have yet begun.”
Financial Sector Outlook
Investor Paul Tudor Jones warned that a 50% tariff reduction by Trump might not be enough to prevent a stock market drop. “It’s a dangerous combination: Trump obsessed with tariffs and the Fed unwilling to cut rates,” he said on CNBC.
Meeting with the President of Switzerland
In addition to talks with Chinese officials, Bessent and Greer are also scheduled to meet with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter, according to statements from the Treasury and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
