China Sets Conditions for U.S. Tariff Talks Amid Escalating Trade Dispute

The U.S. has escalated its trade war with China by imposing tariffs as high as 245% on certain Chinese imports, aiming to pressure Beijing and deter third-party countries from enabling Chinese goods to bypass restrictions. In response, China raised its own tariffs on U.S. goods and signaled conditional willingness to resume trade talks, insisting that the U.S. stop applying 'extreme pressure' and engage in negotiations based on equality and respect. Key Chinese demands for dialogue include addressing concerns over Taiwan, providing consistent messaging and a designated U.S. negotiator, and reconsidering technology export controls and sanctions. The intensifying tariff exchange has already impacted global markets and major technology firms, with companies like Nvidia reporting significant financial hits and broader concerns about disruptions to global supply chains. Despite public overtures by President Trump, mixed signals from his administration have left Beijing uncertain about U.S. intentions, complicating the prospects for substantive negotiations. Analysts warn that the economic impact of these tariffs may deepen in the coming quarters as both countries brace for further escalation.