United States President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing a fair trade deal with China, even as talks continue with multiple countries around the globe. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, the former president disclosed that while no direct conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping was scheduled for the week, discussions between American and Chinese officials were ongoing across a range of economic issues.
“We are in discussions with many countries, including China,” Trump stated. “Our focus is a fair deal. That’s all we want — a fair deal that supports American workers and industry.”
When asked if any agreements were imminent, Trump left the door open: “That could very well be,” he said, without offering specifics. The comments add fuel to ongoing speculation about the direction of U.S. trade policy, particularly as tensions remain high between Washington and Beijing.
Tariff Strategies Shape Trump’s Trade Agenda
Since April 2, when Trump introduced sweeping tariff policies, his administration has intensified efforts to renegotiate trade terms with several nations. The former president implemented a 10% tariff on imports from most countries, with additional punitive tariffs — including 25% on autos, steel, and aluminum, and up to 145% on Chinese imports — as part of his hardline trade approach.
Trump’s strategy has prompted a flurry of behind-the-scenes meetings between U.S. officials and international trading partners, aimed at resetting what he calls long-standing imbalances in America’s trade relationships.
“These tariffs are part of a necessary correction,” Trump told reporters. “We’ve been taken advantage of for decades, and the American people deserve better.”
He indicated that further tariff announcements could be expected within the next few weeks, particularly targeting countries reluctant to renegotiate terms. “We may not reach agreements with some countries,” he said. “Instead, we could be setting new tariffs within two to three weeks.”
Clarity Sought on Upcoming Measures
Despite the strong rhetoric, there remains uncertainty over which tariffs Trump was referring to — especially given the 90-day suspension that accompanied the April 2 announcement. The tariffs are scheduled to take effect on July 8, unless new deals are struck before then.
Industry analysts say the potential return of the tariffs could have a significant impact on global trade flows and domestic prices, especially in manufacturing and technology sectors that rely heavily on imported components.
Some observers speculate that Trump’s escalating stance could be a strategic move to pressure trading partners into making concessions ahead of the July deadline.
China Targeted as Major Trade Offender
In remarks that underscored his long-held grievances with Beijing, Trump accused China of exploiting the United States through unfair trade practices spanning several administrations.
“China has been ripping us off for years,” he declared. “It started a long time ago, and we’ve just let it happen. We’re finally saying enough is enough.”
He went a step further by criticizing former President Richard Nixon, whose administration opened diplomatic relations with China in 1972. “That was probably the worst thing Nixon ever did,” Trump said, suggesting that the economic fallout of U.S.-China relations has done more harm than good.
China Now Eager for a Deal, Says Trump
Despite the combative tone, Trump struck a more optimistic note in an interview with NBC News, taped on Friday and broadcast Sunday. In the segment, he indicated that the Chinese government is now more willing to negotiate a deal.
“I’ve been very tough on China,” he said. “We essentially went cold turkey. That means we’re not losing a trillion dollars, because we’re not doing business with them right now.”
Trump suggested that the pause in trade has created leverage for the U.S. in ongoing negotiations. “They want to make a deal very badly. We’ll see how that turns out. But it’s got to be a fair deal. That’s non-negotiable,” he insisted.
According to Trump, the aggressive tactics are working, with Chinese officials signaling openness to resolving disputes and restoring economic ties. Still, he emphasized that any agreement must prioritize American interests above all else.
Mixed Reactions at Home and Abroad
While Trump’s tough stance on trade has earned praise from some domestic manufacturers and conservative commentators, it has also drawn criticism from U.S. businesses, farmers, and foreign allies affected by the tariffs.
Many American exporters — particularly in agriculture — have experienced retaliatory tariffs from China and other countries, leading to reduced sales abroad. Economists have warned that an extended trade war could disrupt global supply chains and raise consumer prices at home.
Nevertheless, Trump remains undeterred. “We’re going to put America first in every deal,” he said. “This is not about pleasing foreign governments or Wall Street. It’s about creating jobs and protecting our future.”
Looking Ahead
As the July 8 tariff deadline approaches, all eyes are on Washington and Beijing to see if a breakthrough can be achieved. Trump’s trade policies continue to be a defining feature of his economic legacy — one marked by disruption, boldness, and a willingness to challenge long-standing international norms.
Whether the latest round of talks yields a “fair deal” remains to be seen. But for now, the former president appears confident that his aggressive approach is reshaping the global trade landscape on America’s terms.
