WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has stirred global markets by proposing a massive 80% tariff on Chinese goods. His post on social media came just days before key U.S.–China trade talks set to begin in Switzerland.
“An 80% tariff on China sounds fair,” Trump wrote on Friday, marking a bold move as both nations prepare to discuss trade.
China responded with calm. Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying said Beijing is “fully confident” in managing its economic relationship with the U.S. 
Since returning to office, Trump has raised tariffs on Chinese products to 145%. China has hit back with 125% tariffs on U.S. goods. This tariff war has slowed trade between the two top economies.
Fresh data shows China’s exports to the U.S. dropped over 20% in April. Still, China’s overall exports rose by 8.1%, more than expected.
Experts say both countries are feeling economic strain. Dan Wang of Eurasia Group said recent remarks suggest both sides are ready to talk. “A deal may not be far off,” she noted.
Even so, major breakthroughs may take time. Former U.S. trade official Stephen Olson said the root problems “won’t be fixed quickly.” He believes any tariff cuts will be small.
Talks will be led by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and China’s top economic official He Lifeng. Olson said real progress will need both leaders at the table.
Trump urged China to open its market to U.S. companies. He hinted that final decisions on tariffs would depend on Bessent’s recommendations.
The meeting follows a trade pact between the U.S. and the U.K. That deal lowered tariffs on some British cars and metals, and gave Britain better access to U.S. beef and farm goods. Other countries are now rushing to strike similar agreements before Trump’s new import tariffs take effect next month.
Trump had earlier announced wide-ranging reciprocal tariffs on many nations. But he paused them for 90 days to allow room for negotiation.
Meanwhile, U.S. companies are feeling the pressure. Idaho-based outdoor clothing brand Wild Rye, which manufactures in China, is facing steep costs. CEO Cassie Abel said a $700,000 shipment is now burdened with $1.2 million in tariffs. “We may need to sell part of the business to stay afloat,” she added.
