Credited from: TRTGLOBAL
China acknowledged on Friday that it is "evaluating" the US's outreach for talks regarding the significant tariffs imposed on its goods, with duties climbing to 145%. The Chinese Commerce Ministry highlighted that Washington's willingness to negotiate is contingent upon the removal of these tariffs, which have created substantial economic strain. "If the US wants to talk, it should show sincerity by preparing to correct its wrong practices and cancel unilateral tariffs," a ministry spokesperson stated, underlining a hardline stance against perceived coercion, according to Indiatimes and Channel News Asia.
This acknowledgment marks a potential shift in Beijing's approach amid significant economic pressures from Tariff-induced losses. Reports indicate that China’s economic activity has slowed markedly, reflected in a Purchasing Managers’ Index falling to an alarming 49.0 in April. Analysts suggest the abrupt drop in manufacturing could prompt Beijing to reconsider its position on negotiations if the economic costs continue to escalate, as cited by Bangkok Post and Forbes.
However, there remain significant hurdles ahead. President Trump reiterated recently there is a "very good chance" of a deal with China, reflecting optimism that his administration could negotiate an agreement. Trump's administration claims that discussions are already taking place despite China’s denials of such claims, according to Indiatimes and Al Jazeera.
While the US looks forward to negotiations, both sides appear to remain steadfast on maintaining firm stances. Analysts suggest that both nations are unwilling to show signs of weakness, as highlighted by the Ministry of Commerce's statement affirming that “if the US side does not rectify its erroneous unilateral tariff measures, it would demonstrate a complete lack of sincerity and further undermine mutual trust,” according to Dawn and NPR.
As market conditions fluctuate, the broader implications of these negotiations are under scrutiny, with both Beijing and Washington facing mounting pressure to resolve their differences to avert further economic fallout. The complex nature of these trade relations suggests that any forthcoming dialogue will be fraught with challenges as both parties examine their respective interests, illuminated by continued commentary from economic analysts such as those from SCMP and TRT Global.