China Demands Elimination of Tariffs in Search of Trade Peace

On Thursday, China requested the elimination of all “unilateral” tariffs imposed by the United States, following indications that the Trump administration may be softening its stance in the trade war with Beijing.

Despite this, China made it clear that it is not engaged in trade talks with Washington, despite repeated claims from the U.S. government suggesting that progress has been made. President Trump has stated that an agreement with China will be reached and mentioned that there was "direct contact" between the two nations on Wednesday. Trump refers to his tariffs as "reciprocal" and argues that these duties are aimed at correcting what he considers unfair trade imbalances. The spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, He Yadong, stated that the U.S. should lift all “unilateral tariff measures” against China “if it truly wishes” to resolve the trade conflict. “The one who tied the knot must untie it,” he expressed to the media at a conference. Additionally, the Trump administration is considering reducing tariffs on Chinese products from 145% to between 50% and 65%, pending dialogue with Beijing, according to Reuters citing a source close to the matter. He also urged the U.S. to listen to the “rational opinions” from the international community and political parties within the country. "There have been no consultations or negotiations on tariffs between China and the United States, let alone an agreement,” emphasized the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guo Jiakun, in another conference, dismissing such reports as “falsehoods.” On Wednesday, a roundtable discussion was held in China addressing the concerns of over 80 foreign companies and chambers regarding the impact of U.S. tariffs on their investments and activities in the country, according to a statement from the Ministry of Commerce. In Washington, the governor of China’s central bank, Pan Gongsheng, asserted that China will firmly support the rules of free trade and the multilateral trading system during a G20 meeting in the context of the IMF and World Bank's spring meetings. With information from Reuters

This situation highlights the complexity of international trade relations. The resolution of tariff disputes not only depends on the willingness of the countries involved, but also on factors such as public opinion and global economic pressures. In an environment where political decisions have a direct impact on trade, it is crucial for both countries to find a diplomatic path to avoid adverse consequences for their economies. Uncertainty can always affect investment and growth, both in Mexico and around the world.