US, China Officials Meet in Geneva to Discuss Trade Talks

Top officials from the Trump administration are set to meet with their Chinese counterparts in Switzerland for the first formal trade talks since President Trump dramatically increased tariffs on Chinese imports in early April. The recent escalation raised tariffs to a minimum of 145 percent, intensifying the ongoing trade standoff between the two countries. Both sides have expressed interest in reducing tariffs but neither has indicated a willingness to make the first move. The discussions are aimed at addressing a range of economic disputes, including accusations of unfair trade practices and issues related to fentanyl imports. While the talks could help ease tensions, there is uncertainty about how quickly an agreement might be reached or what it would entail. China has publicly criticized the tariffs as 'illegal and unreasonable,' underscoring the challenges ahead.