Trump Slashes China Tariffs to 80% Ahead of May 10 Trade Talks

President Donald TRUMP has reversed course in the US-China trade war, proposing 80% tariffs on Chinese imports—a sharp reduction from the 145% duties imposed in April 2025. The move follows mounting pressure from financial markets and advisors, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who deemed the previous rates "unsustainable." The adjustment aims to stabilize economic relations ahead of critical trade negotiations with Beijing.

Earlier tariff escalations triggered significant market volatility, with China retaliating by imposing 125% duties on US goods. This tit-for-tat dynamic disrupted global supply chains and roiled commodity prices. The tariff reduction signals a potential de-escalation, though its long-term impact on US-China relations remains uncertain.

Trump defended the policy shift in a series of Truth Social posts, framing it as a strategic recalibration rather than a concession. Markets will scrutinize whether the lowered tariffs foster meaningful progress in upcoming talks or merely postpone further confrontation.