The United States has reached out to China for discussions over escalating tariffs, which have rattled global markets and disrupted international supply chains, a Chinese state-linked outlet reported on Thursday.

According to Yuyuan Tantian, an affiliate of China’s state broadcaster CCTV, US officials have been “proactively” engaging with Beijing through “multiple channels” to initiate tariff negotiations.

“From a negotiation standpoint, the US is currently the more anxious party,” the outlet stated on Weibo, a Chinese social media platform similar to X.
“The Trump administration is facing multiple pressures,” it added.

Rising Tariffs Fuel Trade War

The mounting US-China trade war has intensified in recent weeks. In April, Washington imposed punitive tariffs as high as 145% on numerous Chinese products. In retaliation, Beijing introduced 125% duties on a wide range of American imports.

Despite the growing strain on global commerce, AFP reports that it has contacted China’s foreign ministry for an official comment but has yet to receive a response.

Trump Maintains Tough Stance on Trade

US President Donald Trump has frequently claimed that Beijing is eager for a resolution.
“There’s a very good chance we’re going to make a deal,” Trump said during a NewsNation “town hall” on Wednesday.
“But we’re going to make it on our terms, and it’s got to be fair.”

However, Chinese officials have consistently denied that any formal discussions are underway. While they call for dialogue based on “fair, respectful and reciprocal” principles, China’s foreign ministry has emphasized its readiness to sustain the trade war if necessary.

In a recent social media post, the ministry declared: “Never kneel down!”