U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday expressed strong optimism about reaching a “very good” trade agreement with China, even as tensions flared with Washington imposing steep tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports in response to Beijing’s retaliatory actions.
“We’re going to make a deal. I think we’re going to make a very good deal with China,” Trump said, according to The Hill. He added that the U.S. would face “very little problem making a deal with Europe or anybody else.”
Trump made the remarks during a joint appearance at the White House with visiting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. He also reiterated confidence in securing a trade deal with the European Union before a 90-day suspension on reciprocal tariffs concludes.
According to a White House fact sheet, Chinese goods are now subject to tariffs of up to 245% upon entering the U.S.—a sharp increase from the previous rate of 145%. The move comes amid ongoing tit-for-tat trade measures between the two global powers.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian questioned the figures provided by the White House, urging reporters to confirm the specifics with the U.S. side. Lin emphasized that China has always viewed the tariff conflict as initiated by Washington, and described Beijing’s countermeasures as “reasonable and legal.”
“Tariff wars have no winners,” Lin stated, adding that while China does not seek confrontation, it is prepared to defend its interests. He reiterated Beijing’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation, stressing the need to dismantle trade barriers and promote global economic stability.
The latest developments mark another chapter in the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, even as both sides publicly signal a willingness to find common ground.