• US and China have agreed to extend a pause on tariffs after talks in Stockholm.
• The extension could be for another 90 days, pending President Trump's final approval.
• Chinese trade negotiator Li Chenggang characterized discussions as "in-depth and constructive."
• The talks addressed concerns over China's trade practices and trade balance.
• No major breakthroughs were announced, yet both sides recognized the importance of stable relations.

After two days of discussions in Stockholm, US and Chinese officials agreed to extend the pause on tariffs following productive negotiations. The truce is currently set to expire on August 12, a deadline that will require formal agreement to prevent the reactivation of nearly 24% tariffs previously established by the US. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the finalized decision on the extension will ultimately rest with President Donald Trump, who will be briefed on the negotiations upon returning to Washington, according to SCMP, AA, and The Hill.

Li Chenggang, China's top trade negotiator, described the talks as "in-depth and candid." He emphasized the mutual recognition of the need for stable economic relations between the two countries. US officials reiterated that the discussions addressed key economic issues, including China's trade practices and purchases of certain goods, highlighting a focus on restoring balance in trade. This consensus marks a step toward potentially fruitful negotiations in the future, as noted by Channel News Asia and Bloomberg.

Throughout the discussions, both parties expressed their commitment to continue engaging with each other to address trade concerns and explore methods to sustain a healthy economic relationship. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer remarked on the constructive nature of the talks, effectively communicating that any pause on tariffs would not be finalized until Trump evaluates the outcomes of these meetings. The importance of this dialogue is emphasized by the looming deadline, and the economic implications that could arise from failing to extend the truce, as mentioned in reports from Le Monde and India Times.