‘Not looking to hurt China’: Trump hails ‘total reset’ with Beijing after Geneva tariff truce

US-China Tariffs Truce: US President Donald Trump has described recent trade discussions with China as a “total reset” in bilateral ties, saying relations between the two nations are now “very, very good.” His remarks came after the United States and China reached a temporary truce during trade talks held in Geneva, agreeing to suspend reciprocal tariffs for a 90-day period in an effort to de-escalate tensions.

Speaking at a press briefing at the White House on Monday, Trump said, “The talks in Geneva were very friendly, the relationship is very good, we are not looking to hurt China. China has been hurt very badly. They were closing factories, they were having a lot of unrest. And they were very happy to be able to do something with us and the relationship is very, very good. Maybe I will speak with President Xi Jinping by the end of the week,” ANI reported.

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Partial tariffs to stay in place

Despite the agreement to pause further tariff escalation, both countries will continue to apply some trade duties. China will impose a 10 per cent tariff on US goods, while the United States will continue taxing Chinese imports at around 30 per cent.

A joint statement issued after the talks highlighted the importance of the US-China economic relationship to both countries and to the global economy. It stated that both sides acknowledge the need for a “sustainable, long-term, and mutually beneficial” trade partnership, and committed to ongoing dialogue to address key concerns.

To keep communication channels open, the two nations will establish a formal framework for continued dialogue. China will be represented by He Lifeng, Vice Premier of the State Council, while Scott Bessent (US Treasury Secretary) and Jamieson Greer (US Trade Representative) will lead the American side.

“These discussions may be conducted alternately in China and the United States, or a third country upon agreement of the Parties. As required, the two sides may conduct working-level consultations on relevant economic and trade issues,” the statement added.

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Trump pushes for tariff parity globally

President Trump, who has long advocated tariff reciprocity with nations running surpluses against the US, had imposed a range of tariffs globally. Many countries later opened negotiations with the US, prompting Trump to pause the additional tariffs for a 90-day window starting 9 April.

He had warned that tariffs on Chinese goods could go as high as 245 per cent, while Chinese duties on American products stood at around 125 per cent.

Since beginning his second term, Trump has doubled down on his stance, emphasising that the US will match any import taxes levied by other countries, including India, in an effort to secure fair trade terms.

(With inputs from agencies)