Trump and Xi's Phone Call: A Step Towards Trade Peace?
Trump and Xi Jinping held a phone conversation.
The world's economic titans, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, have engaged in a phone conversation - the first since Trump took office back in January. This discussion, instigated by Trump himself, marks a significant development in the ongoing trade feud between the two nations [1].
Traditional media outlets such as Xinhua report that the call, lasting an estimated 90 minutes, covered the heated trade dispute between the countries, without delving into the global hotspots like the Ukraine conflict[1]. Trump took to his Truth Social platform, revealing that the conversation yielded "a very positive outcome for both countries." He further mentioned that the respective teams will meet soon, and a decision on the location is yet to be made[1][2].
On the other hand, Xi maintained a more restrained tone, emphasizing the importance of adhering to mutual agreements and China's commitment to upholding its promises [1]. Both leaders concurred that their teams should continue to implement the consensus and plan for a new round of talks as soon as possible [1]. As a gesture of goodwill, Xi invited Trump and the First Lady for a visit to China, an invite Trump reciprocated [1].
The trade war between the USA and China has been a contentious issue since Trump's presidency, with escalating tariffs and counter-tariffs on both sides[2]. The latest development, however, brings a glimmer of hope for a potential resolution [1].
Behind the Scenes: Key Developments
Over the past few months, there have been signs of de-escalation in the trade conflict. On May 12, 2025, the Trump administration announced a mutual reduction in trade measures with China [1]. This included lowering US tariffs from 145% to 30% and Chinese tariffs on US goods from 125% to 10%[1]. Additionally, China suspended an initial 34% tariff announced on April 4, 2025, for 90 days, retaining a 10% tariff during this period [1].
Both countries agreed to modify their tariff applications and remove non-tariff countermeasures by May 14, 2025 [1]. This agreement is seen as a potential step towards easing trade tensions and improving economic prospects by reducing inflationary pressures and supporting strategic investment [1][2]. Nevertheless, the ongoing uncertainty in US trade policy continues to present challenges for long-term economic stability and global leadership [1].
As we await further updates from the upcoming meetings between the teams, one can only hope that this latest development signifies a genuine effort towards resolving the protracted trade war between the USA and China.
Keywords:
- US-China trade war
- De-escalation
- Trade discussions
- Donald Trump
- Xi Jinping
- Tariffs
- Trade relations
- China-US economic relations
[1] ntv.de, mpa/dpa/DJ[2] Truth Social Post and White House Press Conference, unspecified sources.
- The ongoing discussions between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a crucial development in the US-China trade war, have sparked hopes of a potential resolution to the protracted conflict, given their agreement to lower tariffs and modify their respective policies.
- The general news and policy-and-legislation spheres have observed significant developments in the US-China trade war, with the community and employment policies also experiencing indirect effects due to the uncertainties in trade relations between the world's economic titans.
