Chinese State Media: 'US Seeks Negotiations on Tariff Issues Through Various Channels'

The Chinese side announced on the 1st that the United States has been reaching out through various channels amid the escalating tariff war between China and the US.

The social media channel 'Weiyuantantian', operated by China Central Television (CCTV), stated on this day, "The US hopes to negotiate with China on the tariff issue."

Recently, there has been a repeated pattern where US President Donald Trump claims negotiations with China are underway, only for China to immediately deny it. On the 24th of last month, China also promptly refuted President Trump's remarks suggesting daily negotiations, stating that no negotiations were in progress.

Weiyuantantian commented, "The Trump administration is facing various pressures, including economic and public opinion," and added, "Clearly, the more urgent side is the US." It continued, "China believes there is no need to engage in dialogue before the US takes substantial measures, but if the US wants to reach out, it does not harm China at this stage." Furthermore, it added, "The Chinese side should observe or draw out the true intentions of the US to take the lead in negotiations."

Recently, as the US imposed additional tariffs of up to 145% on most Chinese products, China responded with additional tariffs of 125% on US products. As a result, trade between the two countries is virtually severed.

Reporter Park Surim, Hankyung.com paksr365@hankyung.com