Former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Chinese President Xi Jinping recently called him to discuss trade, suggesting negotiations are underway between the two countries. However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has denied that any tariff discussions are currently taking place.
In an interview with Time magazine, Trump said Xi initiated the call during the ongoing trade war, which has seen both nations impose steep import levies on each other. “He’s called. And I don’t think that’s a sign of weakness,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. had made 200 trade deals expected to be finalized within weeks.
Despite these remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun dismissed the suggestion, stating, “China and the US are not having any consultation or negotiation on tariffs.” He urged Washington to stop “creating confusion” and misleading the public.
Meanwhile, China has quietly exempted some U.S. goods from tariffs, signaling a possible softening stance even as tensions remain high. Trump, continuing to frame himself as a master negotiator, said he alone determines trade terms. “I own the store,” he told Time. “If you want to shop here, this is what you have to pay.”
The conflicting accounts come as the U.S. maintains a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, with Beijing imposing 125% tariffs in response. Trump did not offer details on the reported call but promised further comments “at the appropriate time.”
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