Fri May 02 02:11:34 UTC 2025: ## China Open to US Trade Talks, But Ready for “Fight to the End”

**BEIJING/WASHINGTON –** Amidst escalating trade tensions, China has signaled its willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States to resolve the ongoing trade war, but has also issued a firm warning that it is prepared for a protracted conflict. The Ministry of Commerce stated Friday that while it is “evaluating” recent US overtures for talks, it maintains a resolute stance: “If there is a fight, we will fight to the end; if there are talks, the door is open.”

The statement follows reports that the Trump administration has made multiple attempts to initiate dialogue with Beijing. China insists that any negotiations must involve the US demonstrating “sincerity” by rescinding its unilaterally imposed tariffs. The ministry explicitly warned against using talks as a tool for “coercion and blackmail.”

US President Trump has repeatedly claimed ongoing negotiations with China, a claim consistently refuted by Chinese officials. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio corroborated the attempts at dialogue on Fox News Thursday night, stating that China is “reaching out” and “wants to talk,” attributing this to the significant economic damage inflicted by the tariffs. He also emphasized the need for reduced US dependence on China.

Experts offer mixed perspectives. Christopher Beddor of Gavekal Dragonomics believes China’s openness to talks is genuine, provided the US demonstrates seriousness. However, Steven Okun of APAC Advisors cautions against labeling any contact as “negotiation” prematurely, highlighting the deep economic interdependence between the two nations and the substantial damage the trade war is inflicting on both.

The ongoing uncertainty has fueled global economic anxieties. The IMF recently lowered its global growth forecast for 2025, while JPMorgan Chase estimates a 60% chance of a US recession this year. The situation remains highly volatile, with the outcome depending heavily on whether both sides can find common ground or if the trade war continues its damaging trajectory.

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