Wed, 07 May 2025

Wed, 07 May 2025 US and China to start talks over trade war this week

Global trade experts have told the BBC they expect the negotiations to take several months.

* US and Chinese officials will start talks in Switzerland from May 9-12 to deescalate trade tensions
* The talks will be led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on behalf of Washington, while Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will represent Beijing
* The two countries have imposed tariffs on each other's goods, with China hitting back at US levies of up to 145%
* Global trade experts expect the negotiations to take several months, with some predicting they may drag on for a year or more
* The talks aim to de-escalate tensions rather than secure a new trade deal, according to officials
* Chinese state media has stated that Beijing is open to talks but will continue to fight if necessary
* Financial markets have reacted positively to the news, with stocks rising in mainland China and Hong Kong
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