China agrees to hold talks with US over tariffs

China said yesterday it will hold high-level economic and trade talks with the United States during Vice Premier He Lifeng’s upcoming visit to Switzerland from May 9 to 12, amid ongoing tensions over tariffs and trade policy.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce said He, China’s lead official on trade issues with the U.S., is expected to meet with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during the visit.

The spokesperson criticized what China described as “unreasonable and unilateral” tariff measures imposed by the current U.S. administration, accusing Washington of disrupting bilateral trade ties and the global economic order. In response, China said it has taken “resolute countermeasures” to defend its interests.

The ministry said the U.S. has recently shown interest in reopening dialogue on tariffs through multiple channels. Following what it called a careful assessment of these messages, China has agreed to engage, citing international expectations, national interests, and concerns from U.S. industries and consumers.

“China’s position has been consistent,” the spokesperson said. “If forced to fight, China will fight to the end. But for talks, the door is open.”

Any negotiations, the spokesperson added, must be based on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocal benefit. China urged the U.S. to acknowledge the negative consequences of its tariff policies and to align with international trade norms and the views of various stakeholders.

The spokesperson also warned against using dialogue as a tool for coercion, stating that China will not compromise its principles or global standards of fairness and justice for the sake of an agreement.

Commenting on U.S. trade talks with other economies, the spokesperson said compromise alone does not bring respect and that only by upholding principles can nations protect their interests.

China, the spokesperson said, remains committed to further opening its economy, defending the multilateral trading system centered on the World Trade Organization, and promoting inclusive globalization through cooperation and resistance to unilateralism and protectionism. (SD-Xinhua)