U.S. and Chinese Officials Resume Trade Talks in Geneva Amid Rising Tensions

Geneva, Switzerland – U.S. and Chinese officials have returned to the negotiating table in Geneva, resuming high-stakes trade talks after a brief break. The meetings come at a critical juncture, as both countries face mounting economic pressure following tit-for-tat tariff escalations.

Leading the U.S. delegation are Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, while China is represented by Vice Premier He Lifeng and Security Minister Wang Xiaohong. The talks, facilitated by Swiss mediators, aim to de-escalate a conflict that has significantly disrupted global supply chains and rattled financial markets.

The backdrop to the renewed dialogue is a dramatic rise in tariffs—145% imposed by the U.S. on Chinese imports, and 125% retaliatory tariffs from China. As a result, Chinese exports to the U.S. dropped over 20% in April alone. President Donald Trump has signaled a potential reduction in tariffs to 80% if meaningful progress is achieved during negotiations.

Key American demands include narrowing the trade deficit, securing China’s cooperation in halting fentanyl trafficking, and encouraging economic reforms that boost domestic consumption. Meanwhile, China is seeking fairer treatment and relief from the punitive trade measures.

While expectations for an immediate breakthrough remain low, both sides have agreed to continue discussions over the weekend. The global community watches closely, hopeful that the Geneva talks may mark the beginning of a resolution to the prolonged trade war.