Trump Rejects Tariff Reduction on China Amid Upcoming Trade Talks, Fed Warnings

President Donald Trump has firmly stated his unwillingness to reduce the 145% tariffs on China, even as a means to bring the country to the negotiating table. This stance was articulated in response to a reporter's question during a ceremony at the Oval Office. Trump's comments come at a time when the U.S. and China are engaged in ongoing trade tensions, with the U.S. having escalated tariffs on Chinese imports to 145% ninety days ago. The President's position underscores the significant trade divide between the two nations and suggests a challenging path ahead for any potential agreement to lower tariffs. These remarks coincide with an upcoming meeting between U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Switzerland to discuss trade issues. Additionally, the Federal Reserve has warned of stagflation risks due to the ongoing tariff war, and Wall Street reacted negatively to Trump's comments.