Trump expects trade deal with China, discusses tariffs reduction

President Trump expressed optimism about reaching a trade agreement with China, stating that the current 145 percent tariff rate on Chinese imports will be substantially reduced once a deal is negotiated with President Xi Jinping, though it will not drop to zero. Trump emphasized his strong personal relationship with Xi as a basis for progress, assuring that negotiations will be conducted amicably. He noted that if China does not agree to a deal, the United States will determine the terms unilaterally. The administration is seeking to reassure markets and investors that a resolution may be forthcoming, with the president confident that the process will move quickly. Some experts have warned that the current tariff levels effectively halt trade between the two countries, underscoring the urgency of reaching an agreement. Trump reiterated that while the tariffs will decrease, they will remain in place to some extent to protect U.S. interests.