President Donald Trump has characterized his trade policy with China as a reluctant one, stating he was “forced” into imposing tariffs that he now admits are “not sustainable.”
This complex framing comes as the White House confirms a meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in approximately two weeks. “I get along great with him,” Trump said, offering a hopeful tone for the talks.
Despite his personal optimism, Trump remains wary of Beijing’s intentions. “China is always looking for an edge,” he remarked. “I don’t know what’s going to happen. We’ll see what happens.”
The timing of the summit is crucial. It is expected to occur at the APEC meeting in South Korea, shortly before a November 10 deadline when a 90-day trade truce expires. This truce has paused duties that had roiled global markets.
Trump’s core objective is to secure a “fair deal.” He continues to defend the tariffs, despite their “not sustainable” nature, as essential to US negotiating power. “If we didn’t have tariffs, we would be exposed as being a nothing,” he stated.
Trump on China: ‘Forced’ Into ‘Not Sustainable’ Tariffs, Xi Meeting Set
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