Story perspectives

U.S.-China Trade Talks Intensify Amid Expiring Tariff Truce

9/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. and Chinese officials began their fourth round of trade talks in Madrid, aiming to extend the truce in the trade war initiated by President Trump.
The pause on U.S. tariffs expires in November, raising concerns about deteriorating relations.
U.S. representatives include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, while Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng leads for China.
Discussions will address national security, economic issues, and TikTok's ownership, with a deadline for separation from ByteDance approaching.
The talks also focus on U.S. tariff measures and export controls amid economic pressures on both nations.

History

Historical Context

The U.S.-China trade war began in 2018 when the U.S. imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods, escalating tensions between President Trump and President Xi Jinping. This conflict has significantly affected global markets and continues to influence trade discussions, particularly regarding technology firms like TikTok, as both nations navigate economic policies and national security concerns.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. and Chinese officials began their fourth round of trade talks in Madrid, aiming to extend the truce in the trade war initiated by President Trump.
The pause on U.S. tariffs expires in November, raising concerns about deteriorating relations.
U.S. representatives include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, while Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng leads for China.
Discussions will address national security, economic issues, and TikTok's ownership, with a deadline for separation from ByteDance approaching.
The talks also focus on U.S. tariff measures and export controls amid economic pressures on both nations.

1 / 2