The White House says a China trade deal is done—but won’t say what’s in it. Over the weekend, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer spoke briefly to reporters after talks in Geneva. They used words like “progress” and “constructive,” but they didn’t take questions or reveal terms. All we know: the deal aims to reduce the massive U.S. trade deficit with China. The White House promises full details on Monday.

President Trump has been briefed and is calling it a “total reset.” Yet for now, nothing is official on tariffs, which still sit at a sky-high 145% on Chinese goods. The Chinese side hasn’t confirmed the deal either. That silence is making analysts uneasy.

Trade Deal Talks Move Fast, but What Was Agreed?

The trade deal emerged after just two days of talks in Switzerland. That speed surprised many. Bessent and Greer said they were able to break through key sticking points quickly. Greer even suggested the differences weren’t as large as previously thought. Both sides called the talks productive and the atmosphere friendly.

The Chinese team, led by Vice Premier He Lifeng, didn’t release any statements by Sunday evening. Meanwhile, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and White House adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed the U.S. team was optimistic. But the lack of specifics is raising eyebrows, especially with such high tariffs still in place.

Trade Deal May Not Touch Tariffs—Yet

Despite the warm words, this China trade deal might not lower tariffs any time soon. Both sides avoided committing to actual tariff cuts. Bessent previously said current tariffs function like a trade embargo. Trump had suggested an 80% tariff “seems right,” down from the current 145%, but there’s no official change.

Commerce officials insist the burden of tariffs will fall on foreign companies—not American consumers. Still, prices on basic goods are rising. And business groups say the costs are already being passed to U.S. buyers. Until a clear decision is made, the pressure from tariffs will remain.

Scott Bessent Steps Into the Spotlight

Scott Bessent has become the central figure in this high-stakes drama. He’s the one who declared “substantial progress” and called the deal a “constructive reset.” His credibility—and the administration’s trade strategy—now ride on what’s actually in the deal. He worked closely with Greer and spoke directly with Trump throughout the talks.

This was Bessent’s first face-to-face with senior Chinese officials since Trump’s aggressive trade war ramped up. Whether he’s secured a real breakthrough or just bought time remains to be seen. But his role marks a shift from Trump’s usual firebrand style to something more measured.

What Comes Next for U.S.-China Trade?

For now, the world waits for the Monday reveal. But it’s clear the White House wants more than just a temporary fix. Officials have hinted at multiple trade deals with other countries coming soon. That includes last week’s limited agreement with the U.K. Trump is aiming for big wins, and China is the crown jewel.

Still, this deal won’t end the standoff overnight. It’s just one move in a longer game. Currency issues, intellectual property, and industrial subsidies are all still on the table. The U.S. wants China to open up. China wants respect and economic breathing room. Whether this deal delivers on either front will depend on what Monday’s details reveal.