President Trump Signals Pause in Escalating Tariff War with China; TikTok Deal Also on

 Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday indicated a possible halt in the escalating tariff dispute with China, stating that he does not wish to raise tariffs further amid concerns over consumer affordability and broader market impact. The remarks follow a week of heightened trade tensions during which tariffs on Chinese imports were raised to as much as 245%.

“I don’t want them to go higher because at a certain point you make it where people don’t buy,” President Trump told reporters at the White House. “So, I may not want to go higher, or I may not want to even go up to that level. I may want to go to less because you want people to buy.”

The President’s comments come as global markets continue to recover from a steep decline earlier this month, following the April 2 announcement of sweeping reciprocal tariffs on several countries, including India. The administration subsequently placed a 90-day hold on those measures and implemented a baseline 10% tariff on most imports, with China being the exception.

Initially, the U.S. imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, prompting immediate retaliation from Beijing. In response to China’s countermeasures, the U.S. escalated its tariffs to 245% — a move that drew criticism from international trade observers and triggered a stern response from China’s foreign ministry.

“More than 75 countries have already reached out to discuss new trade agreements,” noted a White House Fact Sheet released on Tuesday. “As a result, the individualized higher tariffs are currently paused amid these discussions, except for China, which retaliated. China now faces up to a 245% tariff on imports to the United States as a result of its retaliatory actions.”

The Chinese government, while emphasizing it does not seek confrontation, has warned it will not remain silent. Beijing has, however, left the door open for negotiations, provided they are met with what it termed “respect” from Washington.

President Trump confirmed that there have been contacts with China since the tariffs were imposed and expressed hope for a negotiated solution. However, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that although communication lines remain open, substantive high-level talks — necessary for a breakthrough — have yet to materialize.

In the same media briefing, the President also addressed the pending resolution over TikTok, the popular Chinese-owned social media platform. He indicated that a decision regarding its fate may take more time, without offering further details.

When asked about the status of dialogue between Washington and Beijing or the involvement of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump declined to elaborate.