President Donald Trump has laid out a clear ultimatum for China: agree to a fair trade deal, or face tariffs potentially reaching 155% by November 1st. While issuing this stern warning, Trump also adopted a notably measured approach, acknowledging China’s current financial contributions and respectful demeanor in trade matters. He emphasized that Beijing is currently paying “tremendous amounts of money” to the United States through existing tariffs.
Specifically, Trump pointed out that China is already paying a 55% tariff, which he described as substantial. The potential for this rate to surge to 155% highlights the gravity of the situation. Notwithstanding the tariff threat, Trump expressed optimism about the prospects of working out a “very fair trade deal” with President Xi, anticipating an “exciting” outcome to these critical trade discussions.