Sun May 11 18:07:15 UTC 2025: ## US and China Hold Optimistic Trade Talks in Geneva
**Geneva, Switzerland – May 12, 2025** – High-level talks between the United States and China concluded in Geneva on Sunday, May 11, with both sides expressing cautious optimism. The two-day meeting, aimed at de-escalating escalating trade tensions ignited by President Trump’s steep tariffs on Chinese goods, saw U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stating the administration was “optimistic that things will work out well.”
The discussions, held at the residence of the Swiss Ambassador to the United Nations, involved U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. While details remain scarce, U.S. President Trump previously described the first day’s talks as “very good” and a “total reset,” a sentiment echoed by China’s Xinhua news agency which called the talks “an important step.”
The meetings mark the first face-to-face negotiations between senior officials from the two economic giants since President Trump imposed substantial new tariffs last month, prompting retaliatory measures from China. Current tariffs imposed by the U.S. total 145%, with some reaching 245%, while China retaliated with 125% tariffs on U.S. goods.
Although President Trump hinted at potentially lowering tariffs to 80%, his press secretary clarified that any reduction would require reciprocal concessions from China. Both sides downplayed expectations of a major breakthrough, emphasizing a focus on “de-escalation” rather than a comprehensive trade deal.
Despite the cautious optimism, experts remain divided. While some view the talks as positive news for businesses and financial markets, others express skepticism about a full return to normal U.S.-China trade relations, citing the significant impact of even reduced tariffs on bilateral trade. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched for its implications on the global economy.
First Piper 