President Donald Trump has made clear that the United States will not consider entering a new trade agreement with China unless the long-standing trade imbalance between the two nations is significantly addressed.
Speaking on the current state of U.S.-China relations, Trump reiterated that his administration’s priority is to correct what he views as a fundamentally unfair economic relationship. He emphasized that unless Beijing takes concrete steps to reduce the trade deficit—which the U.S. reports as hundreds of billions annually—no agreement will move forward.
The administration continues to leverage tariffs as a central component of its trade strategy, targeting Chinese imports across multiple sectors. Trump maintains that these measures are essential to protecting American industries and bringing negotiations into alignment with U.S. interests.
According to Trump, any future deal must include enforceable commitments from China on trade fairness, currency practices, and intellectual property protections. He noted that the American public and business community deserve a framework that delivers long-term economic security, not just symbolic progress.
Chinese officials have expressed interest in restoring trade dialogue, but U.S. negotiators have reportedly taken a hardline stance, demanding clear benchmarks before formal talks resume. So far, no meeting dates have been announced.
Trump’s comments come amid increased global scrutiny over trade policies and their impact on inflation, supply chains, and international relations. Economists have warned that sustained tensions between the world’s two largest economies could carry broader consequences, but the White House insists the pressure is necessary to achieve a more equitable playing field.
Until significant action is taken to address the deficit, Trump says the United States is prepared to hold its ground.