U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he anticipates visiting China later this year or shortly thereafter, signaling signs of improvement in relations between the two largest economies after months of intensifying trade tensions, according to AFP.
While speaking to reporters at the White House during a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump referenced recent discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
“I expect that around some point this year or soon after, we’ll go to China,” Trump said, mentioning that both leaders are actively working to reduce the friction. “We’re going to have a wonderful relationship with China,” he added confidently.
Despite the friendly tone, Trump emphasized that he still holds significant leverage. “They have some cards, and we have incredible cards, but I prefer not to play them. If I did, it could harm China,” he warned.
Earlier this year, the U.S. and China clashed when retaliatory tariffs soared into triple digits, causing disruptions across global supply chains. The tension eased after an April agreement lowered tariffs to 30% on U.S. imports and 10% on Chinese goods.
However, Trump maintained the option to raise tariffs again if China does not fulfill promises. “They need to give us magnets. If not, we might impose a 200% tariff or something similar. But I don’t anticipate any issues with that,” he stated.
The current truce remains delicate. The U.S. has accused China of breaching agreements in the past, especially regarding rare earth exports. For now, both sides have agreed to postpone any increase in tariffs until November 10.
