Trump Hints at Easing China Conflict With Softer Trade Approach

President Donald Trump has hinted at reducing the high tariffs on Chinese goods. Speaking at the White House on Tuesday, he said the tariffs will “come down substantially.” However, he also made it clear they won’t be removed entirely. Trump’s comments marked a shift in tone after weeks of strong language and harsh trade policies. For weeks, both the U.S. and China have raised tariffs on each other, pushing rates as high as 145%. Trump now says that level is too high and will not stay. “It won’t be anywhere near that high,” he told reporters. Trump hints at easing China policies recently.

Treasury Secretary Calls the Trade War Unsustainable

Trump made his remarks after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent shared his own view earlier that day. Bessent said the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China is not sustainable. He believes the tariffs are harming both sides and stopping trade almost completely. Bessent spoke at a private event hosted by JP Morgan Chase. According to a source, he told investors the goal is not to separate the two economies but to create a fair balance. He believes a deal could be reached soon. His comments gave a major boost to Wall Street. Trump hints at easing China tariffs seemed to support Bessent’s stance.

Stock Markets in the U.S. and Asia Responded Fast

After Bessent’s remarks became public, U.S. markets jumped. All three major stock indexes hit their highest points of the day. The positive trend then moved across the globe. On Wednesday, stocks in Asia also rose. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index led the gains with a rise of more than 2%. Japan’s Nikkei 225 and South Korea’s Kospi also went up by around 2% and 1.5%, respectively. Investors clearly saw hope in the idea that the trade war might be slowing down. Trump hints at easing China tariffs might have influenced this positive market reaction.

China Responds With Strong But Careful Words

China reacted quickly to the comments made by Trump and Bessent. On Wednesday, China’s Foreign Ministry said the U.S. must stop its pressure tactics. Officials said talks should happen based on equality and respect. Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun warned that using threats will not help. He added that if the U.S. really wants a deal, it must change its approach. China is willing to talk but not afraid to fight. “If it’s to fight, we’ll fight till the end. If it’s to talk, our door is wide open,” Guo said during a press briefing. Trump’s hints at easing China tariffs likely influenced their response.

Trump’s Softer Tone Goes Viral on Chinese Social Media

Trump’s change in tone made waves in China. On Weibo, a popular Chinese social media site, the phrase “Trump chickened out” began trending. The topic received more than 150 million views. Many users mocked Trump for stepping back after months of aggressive talk. The trade war has become a daily topic for Chinese citizens, and Trump’s words added to the drama. The public reaction shows how closely people in China are watching the back-and-forth between the two world powers. By Trump hinting at easing China measures, it sparked viral discussions online.

China Stands Firm as the Trade War Continues

While Trump talks about reducing tariffs, China continues to push back. In response to U.S. actions, China raised its own tariffs on American products. Some tariffs are now as high as 125%. China also added more U.S. companies to blacklists and limited the export of rare minerals. These materials are used in smartphones, computers, and even weapons. China is also putting pressure on U.S. industries by reducing the number of Hollywood films allowed in theaters and returning Boeing jets meant for Chinese airlines.

Trump Says He Still Wants a Deal With Xi Jinping

Despite the trade conflict, Trump insists he has a good relationship with China’s President Xi Jinping. He said he’s waiting for Xi to make the first move. Trump told reporters he won’t pressure China to talk. Instead, he hopes Xi will come forward. On Tuesday, Trump said, “We’ll be very nice.” When asked if he would use tough language or bring up COVID-19, he quickly said no. “They’re going to be very nice, and we’ll see what happens,” he added. Trump believes China needs to make a deal if it wants access to the U.S. market. Still, Trump hints at easing China tariffs may encourage future negotiations.

China Confused by Mixed Signals From the U.S.

Behind the scenes, China is unsure who to talk to. One source told CNN that before Trump raised tariffs on April 2, China had already chosen someone for negotiations. But they didn’t know who to contact on the U.S. side. Trump may want to lead the talks himself. However, that approach doesn’t match how China does business. China expects clear communication and consistent leadership in major talks. The source said Trump’s actions confuse Beijing, especially when his team sends mixed messages.

Harsh Words From U.S. Leaders Anger Beijing

Some members of Trump’s administration have made harsh statements about China. This has upset Chinese officials. For example, earlier this month, U.S. Vice President JD Vance made comments calling some Chinese citizens “peasants.” The remark caused a major backlash in China. Many people online expressed anger and mocked the comment. Chinese officials also spoke out against the insult. These kinds of statements make it harder for the two countries to trust each other and find common ground.