US and China tariffs need to come down before talk can start

Bessent: US and China tariffs need to come down before talks can start

Bessent: US and China tariffs need to come down before talks can start

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent denied that the Trump administration is considering unilaterally slashing steep tariffs on Chinese imports, telling reporters Wednesday that high duties imposed by both sides need to come down mutually before talks can begin between the two economies.

“Neither side believes that these are sustainable levels,” he said. “This is the equivalent of an embargo, and a break between the two countries in trade does not suit anyone's interests.”