The United States and China have started trade talks in Geneva, Switzerland, aiming to ease tensions that have disrupted global markets. China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are leading the negotiations, as reported by Chinese state media.
Both countries have imposed high tariffs on each other’s goods. The US applies a 145% tariff on most Chinese imports, while China has set a 125% tariff on US goods. These measures have led to significant economic strain.
Authorities kept the meeting’s location private, but witnesses observed a strong police presence outside a residence in a Geneva suburb. Chinese officials were seen leaving their hotel by Lake Geneva, while US representatives, including Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, were also spotted. They wore red ties and American flag pins.
Trump’s trade policy and the US-UK agreement
These talks follow President Donald Trump’s recent statement suggesting a reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods. On social media, he stated that an 80% tariff “seems right” and that Bessent would make the final decision. Trump also stressed that China should open its markets to US goods, claiming that closed markets no longer work in today’s global economy.
At the same time, Trump announced a new trade deal with the United Kingdom, which he called “fair, open, and reciprocal.” The agreement could generate approximately $6 billion in tariff revenue. It also promises to create $5 billion in new export opportunities for US producers. Furthermore, it aims to strengthen national security by improving cooperation in sectors such as steel, aluminium, and pharmaceuticals.
The US has also implemented a 10% universal tariff on imports from other countries. Although some measures were paused temporarily, they continue to shape global trade policies.
The Geneva discussions represent the first step towards resolving the trade dispute. Both countries plan to hold further meetings in the coming days.
