China Dismisses Trump’s Tariff Reduction Talks as “Groundless”

China has labeled U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion of a possible deal to reduce tariffs as "groundless," asserting that no trade negotiations are currently taking place between the two nations. The statement was made on Thursday, further intensifying tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong, in a press conference, stated, “As the competent department for foreign economic and trade relations, I want to emphasize that there are currently no economic or trade talks underway between China and the United States.” He added, “Any claims about progress in China-U.S. trade talks are baseless and have no factual support. China urges the U.S. to correct its wrongful practices, demonstrate sincerity, and return to the right path of equal dialogue and consultation.”

The two countries have been locked in a deepening trade war, triggered by Trump’s imposition of heavy tariffs on Chinese goods. Some U.S. tariffs have reached as high as 145 percent on certain Chinese imports. In response, Beijing has levied up to 125 percent in new tariffs on U.S. goods.

President Trump has defended the tariffs as a countermeasure against unfair trade practices and as part of efforts to revive American manufacturing. However, the aggressive tariff moves have rattled global markets and raised concerns about a potential worldwide economic downturn.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump claimed that “everything is active” and said the U.S. is working toward a “fair deal” with China. When asked whether there was direct contact with China, he replied, “Every day.”

Beijing’s outright denial of any ongoing negotiations directly contradicts Trump’s comments, signaling that the trade standoff may be far from resolution.