World · World News Bureau
US and China seek tariff relief ahead of Trump-Xi talks
Washington and Beijing are discussing potential tariff reductions on less sensitive goods as the two countries prepare for high-level negotiations. The preliminary discussions signal both sides may be looking for areas of compromise on trade.
LSN World News ·
The United States and China have begun exploring possible tariff cuts on products considered less politically contentious, in what appears to be preparatory groundwork ahead of anticipated talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Both nations have indicated a willingness to identify categories of goods where tariff reductions might be negotiated without triggering domestic political opposition. Such moves would represent a shift from the escalating trade tensions that have characterized recent relations between the world's two largest economies.
These discussions come as officials from both countries work to establish conditions for substantive negotiations. The identification of less sensitive trade items could provide early wins for either side and build momentum toward addressing more complex trade issues.
The preliminary nature of these discussions suggests both Washington and Beijing are seeking to demonstrate good faith before higher-level negotiations commence. Success in reaching agreement on tariff reductions for non-sensitive products could set a constructive tone for broader trade discussions.
No timeline has been announced for the proposed Trump-Xi summit, though both countries have signaled their interest in resuming direct dialogue on trade and other bilateral matters.