Conflicting statements from US officials over ongoing “China tariff talks” have fueled uncertainty as tensions between Washington and Beijing continue to rattle global markets.
Mixed Messages from Trump Administration
On Sunday, key members of President Donald Trump’s cabinet offered conflicting views about whether negotiations with China over tariffs are actually taking place. President Trump had earlier claimed that discussions were underway and that he had spoken with Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, Beijing has flatly denied that any formal talks are happening.
Last week, the Trump administration indicated a willingness to ease the escalating trade war between the world’s two largest economies, a conflict that has sparked fears of a global recession.
Cabinet Members Contradict Each Other
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, a leading figure in US trade negotiations, shared on Sunday that he interacted with his Chinese counterparts during the recent International Monetary Fund meetings in Washington. Yet, he admitted that they did not discuss the ongoing tariff standoff.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins gave a different account, saying the United States was engaged in “daily conversations” with China regarding tariffs. Speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Rollins emphasized ongoing dialogue with China and nearly a hundred other countries.
Read: China Denies Trade Talks With U.S. Amid Growing Tensions
However, when pressed on ABC’s “This Week,” Bessent sidestepped questions about direct tariff negotiations, saying, “I had interaction with my Chinese counterpart, but it was more on traditional matters like financial stability and global economic risks. I don’t know if President Trump has spoken with President Xi.”
No Clear Timeline for Resolution
Bessent also remarked that reaching a comprehensive trade agreement could take months. However, he noted that a preliminary de-escalation or agreement in principle might come sooner, potentially preventing tariffs from escalating to their highest levels.
Last week, Bessent described negotiations with China as a “slog,” highlighting the complexity and slow pace of progress. No definitive timetable has been set for any breakthrough.
Markets Respond to Uncertainty
The Trump administration’s inconsistent messaging on tariffs has led to heightened market volatility. Investors have grown increasingly wary, as Trump’s erratic approach to tariffs has impacted major trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China.
This instability has eroded confidence in US assets, while businesses and consumers alike brace for the potential fallout from prolonged trade tensions.
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