The U.S. remains locked in tense trade negotiations with China, with the Trump administration claiming optimism but no concrete breakthroughs yet. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett reiterated the White House’s tough stance, emphasizing that reciprocal tariffs aim to force China to abandon unfair practices. However, analysts note Beijing appears unwilling to concede ground, viewing Trump’s recent remarks about reducing tariffs as a sign of American desperation rather than progress.
The administration imposed reciprocal tariffs targeting China’s non-tariff barriers and intellectual property theft, arguing these measures address systemic trade imbalances. Hassett defended the approach, claiming over 50 countries have sought new trade deals with the U.S. since the tariffs took effect. Critics warn the tariffs risk short-term economic pain for American consumers without guaranteed long-term gains.
Beijing has shown no urgency to compromise, according to Hong Kong finance professor Chen Zhiwu, who called Trump’s tariff-reduction comments “typical” posturing that exposes U.S. anxiety. China’s state media continues framing the trade war as U.S. bullying, rallying domestic support against concessions.
While Hassett claims “very optimistic” negotiations, no high-level talks have been publicly confirmed since February 2025. The White House faces pressure from agricultural and manufacturing sectors hit by Chinese retaliatory tariffs, yet maintains that China’s economy will buckle first. China’s export-heavy economy remains resilient through currency adjustments and alternative markets.
The standoff reflects competing visions: Trump’s “America First” protectionism versus China’s state-driven economic model. Success for the U.S. would require dismantling Beijing’s subsidies and forced technology transfers — demands China deems nonstarters. With both sides entrenched, a near-term deal appears unlikely despite administration claims of momentum.
