US President Donald Trump stated that he would prefer not to impose tariffs on China, despite previously making strong commitments during his campaign to impose significant import taxes on America’s top economic competitor.
In an interview with Fox News, when asked if he could negotiate with Chinese leader Xi Jinping regarding Taiwan and trade, Trump responded: “I can achieve that because we possess something they desire, we have a treasure.”
“We hold one major advantage over China, which is tariffs, and they are averse to them, and I would rather avoid using it. But it is a powerful tool against China,” the unpredictable president mentioned in the interview that was broadcast on Thursday in the United States.
After he assumed office on Monday, Trump indicated that a 10 percent tariff on all Chinese imports could be implemented by February 1 — and during his campaign, he had suggested a tariff rate as high as 60 percent.
On Friday, Beijing urged the United States and China to address their disagreements through “discussions and negotiations.”
“Cooperation in economic and trade matters between China and the US is advantageous for both sides,” stated foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.
“Trade conflicts and tariff disputes result in no victors and do not benefit anyone’s interests or those of the global community,” she emphasized.
