Washington D.C. - President Trump announced that the United States will not lower tariffs on Chinese products as a way to initiate trade negotiations. This announcement comes ahead of scheduled talks between U.S. and Chinese representatives in Switzerland this weekend. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are expected to meet with their Chinese counterparts to discuss the ongoing trade dispute.
Trump's decision to maintain tariffs signals a tough stance from the U.S. heading into the negotiations. The existing tariffs have been a point of contention between the two countries, impacting various industries and consumer prices. China has repeatedly called for the removal of tariffs as a condition for reaching a comprehensive trade agreement.
CBS News White House reporter Aaron Navarro reports that the administration believes the tariffs provide leverage in the negotiations and are necessary to protect American businesses. The outcome of the upcoming talks remains uncertain, but Trump's statement suggests that the U.S. is prepared to maintain its current trade policy, at least for the time being.
Trump: US Won't Cut China Tariffs to Begin Trade Talks
President Trump stated the U.S. will maintain existing tariffs on Chinese goods, even as trade talks are set to resume. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with Chinese officials in Switzerland this weekend. The talks aim to address ongoing trade disputes between the two nations. This decision sets a firm tone for the upcoming negotiations.
Source: Read the original article at CBS