China denies Trump's claim about tariff discussions
The US president recently indicated a possible reduction of the proposed tariffs and mentioned that he has been in discussions regarding the situation with Beijing. In response, Beijing has contested US President Donald Trump’s assertions about...

In response, Beijing has contested US President Donald Trump’s assertions about ongoing tariff negotiations between the two nations. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Thursday that no talks have occurred, labeling contrary reports as “fake news.”
Guo’s comments came after Trump hinted at a potential shift in his tariff policy during remarks made on Wednesday. The US president suggested that the tariffs on Chinese goods, implemented earlier this month, would “come down substantially” and promised a “fair deal with China,” claiming that he was “actively” engaging with Beijing.
At a press briefing, Guo declared, “This is all fake news.” He added, “As far as I know, China and the US have not held consultations or negotiations on the tariff issue, let alone reached an agreement.”
He confirmed that Beijing is open to dialogue but emphasized that “the dialogue and negotiation must be equal, respectful and mutually beneficial.”
He reaffirmed the Chinese stance that the tariff conflict “was initiated by the US” and cautioned that Beijing is ready to “fight to the end” against what it deems unfair and illegal trade practices from the US.
Earlier this month, during an event he termed ‘Liberation Day’, Trump enacted extensive tariffs, imposing a staggering 145% on Chinese imports. This action was part of a larger initiative aimed at addressing trade imbalances he perceives as unfair, targeting over 90 countries. Although most new tariffs were put on a 90-day hold—with a baseline 10% still applicable—China was excluded. In response, China implemented 125% tariffs on US goods and curtailed key exports.
The escalating tensions between the world’s two largest economies have fueled volatility in global markets. On Tuesday, the IMF revised down its global growth forecast, citing trade uncertainty as a significant factor hindering output. The IMF’s World Economic Outlook now anticipates global GDP growth at 2.8% this year, a decrease from 3.3% in 2024. Additionally, it adjusted the US growth forecast for 2025 to 1.8%, down from 2.8% in the previous year, while China’s growth is expected to slow to 4% as it attempts to mitigate the impact of Washington’s tariffs.
James del Carmen for TROIB News
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