By Lumine
BEIJING, A breakthrough in the U.S.-China trade war may be within reach as China confirmed Friday it is “evaluating” a new offer from Washington to launch talks on President Donald Trump’s 145% tariffs, one of the most aggressive trade moves in modern history.
In a carefully worded statement, China’s Ministry of Commerce said Beijing’s door “remains open” to dialogue, but made it clear that any negotiation must be grounded in “sincerity” and a **willingness by the U.S. to reverse ‘erroneous practices.’”
“We welcome communication,” the ministry said, “but the U.S. must correct its course and cancel unilateral tariffs.”
Washington Quietly Seeks Exit Ramp
The overture from Beijing comes just days after the U.S. economy contracted by 0.3% in Q1 2025, a downturn widely attributed to the economic shockwaves from Trump’s sweeping tariffs and a surge in panic-driven import stockpiling.
According to Reuters, U.S. officials have quietly approached Chinese counterparts in a behind-the-scenes attempt to kickstart formal negotiations marking the first direct diplomatic movement since Trump enacted his “America Reclaims” initiative in early April.
Beijing’s Message: Let’s Talk, But on Equal Terms
While Beijing appears open to talks, it signaled no willingness to negotiate under duress. The commerce ministry slammed the U.S. for “unilateralism” and emphasized that “mutual respect and practical action” are prerequisites for progress.
“Tariffs are not leverage, they are roadblocks,” said a senior Chinese trade official speaking anonymously. “We will not accept talks that begin with ultimatums.”
Global Markets React
The possibility of renewed U.S.-China dialogue sent Asian stock markets surging, with investors betting on de-escalation in a trade conflict that has strained supply chains, disrupted commodity prices, and chilled global investor sentiment.
Trade analysts suggest this could signal a tactical recalibration by Trump, under pressure from business leaders, Wall Street, and a weakened GDP report that has raised fears of a broader slowdown.
What’s Next?
So far, no formal dates have been announced for trade talks, and both sides remain cautious about setting expectations. Still, the confirmation of direct diplomatic contact represents the most promising sign of progress since tariffs were imposed.
As Beijing weighs the U.S. proposal and Washington faces mounting domestic backlash, global markets and political leaders are watching closely.
