President Donald Trump resumed his attacks on China over its trade policies, after Chinese officials denied his claims that they were negotiating on tariffs.
As part of his sweeping reciprocal tariff policy, Trump slapped China with 145% tariffs after it responded to each of his increased tariff rates. While the president softened his tone toward China in recent days, he slammed China on Thursday for pausing its Boeing plane orders and for its role in the fentanyl crisis.
“Boeing should default China for not taking the beautifully finished planes that China committed to purchase. This is just a small example of what China has done to the USA, for years… And, by the way, Fentanyl continues to pour into our Country from China, through Mexico and Canada, killing hundreds of thousands of our people, and it better stop, NOW!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
The president’s comments come after Chinese officials denied Trump’s claims that the U.S. and China were “actively” talking about negotiating tariffs.
“China and the U.S. have not engaged in any consultations or negotiations regarding tariffs, let alone reached an agreement,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a briefing.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism Tuesday that the trade war with China would cool down soon, saying that “neither side thinks the status quo is sustainable.”
CHINA DENIES TRUMP’S CLAIM THAT TWO COUNTRIES ARE ‘ACTIVELY’ NEGOTIATING TARIFFS
The president has hinted that new rates for the reciprocal tariffs could be brought down in the coming weeks, while also suggesting a decision could be made on China’s tariff rate soon, on Wednesday.
“It is a high tariff, but I haven’t brought it down. It basically means China is not doing any business with us, essentially, because it’s a very high number,” Trump said. “We can make a deal. Otherwise, we’ll set a price, and hopefully they’ll come here and they’ll contribute. And if they don’t, it’s OK.”