President Donald Trump says tariffs on Chinese imports to the United States will eventually be lowered, after both Beijing and Washington appeared to soften their positions about potential trade talks. “At some point, I’m going to lower them because otherwise you could never do business with them,” he said in an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press with Kristen Welker,” which taped on Friday. “They want to do business very much … their economy is collapsing.” Weeks of tit-for-tat escalation between the world’s two largest economies have driven US tariffs on Chinese products to a staggering 145% and Chinese levies on American goods to 125%. Over the past two weeks, both sides have appeared to moderate their rhetoric. In the interview, which aired Sunday, Trump acknowledged the toll the tariffs have taken on China, pointing to factory closures and unemployment “through the roof,” but insisted that he would not make the first move. “You’re not dropping the tariffs against China to get them to the negotiating table?” Welker asked. “Why would I do that?” Trump responded. On Friday, a spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry said the country was “currently assessing” proposals by the US to begin trade talks, but that Trump must “cancel” his “unilateral tariff hikes” first. The US tariffs have already started to affect China’s export-reliant economy. In April, factory activity there showed its steepest contraction in 16 months, while new export orders dipped to their lowest level since 2022, during the depths of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to official data. On Sunday, Trump told reporters on board Air Force One that he has no plans to speak to Chinese leader Xi Jinping this week. “But China and our people are talking about different things,” he added. Trump said he seeks a “fair” trade deal with China, while repeating his claim that the country has taken advantage of the US, in terms of trade, for years. Besides China, Trump said his administration was meeting with “almost” every country, and some trade deals “could very well be” announced this week. “We’re negotiating with many countries but at the end of this I’ll set my own deals because I set the deal, they don’t set the deal,” he said. Depending on the status of negotiations, he said: “At a certain point I’ll be just setting a certain tariff number.” Saving TikTok During the NBC interview, Trump also said he was willing to extend the deadline for Chinese company ByteDance to sell the US operation of TikTok, a wildly popular short video platform that has amassed 170 million American users. Congress, under then-President Joe Biden, passed a law last year requiring the Beijing-based company to divest TikTok in the US or face a ban over national security concerns. Trump has twice extended the deadline because a deal has yet to materialize, despite repeatedly emphasizing the massive interest that American investors have in the app. “I’d like to see it done,” he said, adding that he had a “sweet spot” for the platform, as it helped him win over young voters during the 2024 presidential election. “TikTok is very interesting, but it will be protected,” he added.
Trump says he will lower tariffs on China ‘at some point’
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Trump Signals Future Reduction of Tariffs on China Amid Trade Negotiation Talks"
CNN
7.2
TruthLens AI Summary
In a recent interview with NBC’s 'Meet the Press,' President Donald Trump indicated that he plans to lower tariffs on Chinese imports at some point in the future. This statement comes amid a backdrop of easing tensions between the United States and China concerning trade negotiations. Trump acknowledged the significant economic impact the tariffs have had on China, noting factory closures and high unemployment rates. Despite recognizing these challenges, he asserted that he would not make the first move to reduce tariffs, emphasizing that China must first engage in meaningful negotiations. The current tariffs on Chinese products have risen to an unprecedented level of 145%, while Chinese tariffs on U.S. goods stand at 125%. Both countries are reportedly reassessing their positions, with Trump reiterating that he seeks a trade deal that is fair to the U.S., claiming that China has historically taken advantage of American trade policies.
Furthermore, Trump addressed the situation surrounding TikTok during the interview, stating that he is open to extending the deadline for ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations of the popular video-sharing platform. This extension comes in light of a law passed during the Biden administration that mandates the sale or ban of TikTok due to national security concerns. Trump expressed a personal interest in the app, noting its appeal among younger voters and its potential role in his 2024 presidential campaign. He highlighted the ongoing interest from American investors in acquiring TikTok while affirming his commitment to ensuring the platform's protection in the U.S. market. As negotiations continue with various countries, Trump asserted that he will ultimately dictate the terms of any trade agreements, indicating a strong stance in favor of U.S. interests in international trade discussions.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article discusses President Donald Trump's comments regarding tariffs on Chinese imports, indicating a potential future reduction as trade talks between the U.S. and China appear to soften. This statement comes amidst ongoing tensions and escalating tariffs, which have reached significant levels on both sides. Trump's remarks suggest a strategic positioning as he navigates complex economic dynamics and possible negotiations.
Purpose Behind the Publication
This news appears to aim at shaping public perception around the ongoing trade dispute with China. By emphasizing Trump's willingness to lower tariffs “at some point,” it may create a sense of optimism among businesses and investors that a resolution could be on the horizon, potentially stabilizing markets affected by the trade war.
Public Sentiment and Perception
The narrative constructed in the article seems to appeal to those who support a more favorable trade relationship with China, as well as businesses reliant on Chinese imports. Trump's acknowledgment of the negative impact tariffs have had on China's economy might resonate with those concerned about the broader implications for global trade and the U.S. economy.
Hidden Agendas
There could be underlying motives to distract the public from other pressing issues or to mitigate criticism of Trump's trade policy. By focusing on a potential future reduction in tariffs, the administration may seek to project an image of flexibility and responsiveness to market conditions.
Truthfulness of the Article
The article appears to be based on factual statements made by Trump and reflects the current state of U.S.-China trade relations. However, the emphasis on his future intentions may introduce an element of speculation, which can influence public perception and lead to varying interpretations of the situation.
Intended Audience
The article likely targets a wide audience, including business leaders, policymakers, and the general public interested in economic issues. It may particularly resonate with those concerned about the impacts of tariffs on prices and business operations.
Potential Economic Impact
This news could influence market sentiment, especially in sectors heavily tied to trade with China, such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing. Stocks of companies engaged in exporting to China or relying on Chinese imports may react positively if investors believe that tariffs will be reduced.
Geopolitical Significance
From a geopolitical perspective, this news reflects ongoing shifts in U.S.-China relations, which are critical to global economic stability. The mention of potential dialogue may signal a willingness to engage diplomatically, which could have implications for international trade agreements and alliances.
AI Influence in Article's Tone
While there’s no direct evidence that AI was used in composing this article, the structured presentation and focus on key statements suggest an editorial approach that might be enhanced by algorithmic insights into public sentiment.
Manipulative Elements
The article could be viewed as having manipulative tendencies, as the language used by Trump, such as mentioning the “collapsing” Chinese economy, could provoke emotional responses. This framing may serve to justify maintaining a tough stance on tariffs while leaving room for negotiation.
Overall, the reliability of the article hinges on the context provided by the statements made by Trump, while the interpretation of those statements can vary based on the reader's perspective.