Trump Proposes Cutting China Tariffs from 145% to 80% Ahead of Geneva Meeting Led by Scott Bessent

President Donald Trump has proposed reducing tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 80% ahead of a weekend meeting with top U.S. and Chinese trade officials in Geneva. This move is aimed at deescalating the ongoing trade war between the world's two largest economies. The meeting will be the first major discussion between the two nations since Trump initiated the trade war with high tariffs on imports, including a 20% rate tied to China's failure to stem the flow of chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl. Trump's suggestion comes as part of his strategy to negotiate better trade terms with China, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent leading the U.S. delegation. Trump has also called for China to open its markets to U.S. businesses, emphasizing that closed markets are no longer viable. The proposed tariff reduction, if implemented, would still be significantly high but represents a potential step towards easing tensions. China currently imposes 125% tariffs on U.S. goods. Trump stated on his social media that '80% Tariff on China seems right! Up to Scott B,' referring to Bessent.