During a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reportedly emphasized the U.S. government’s strategic position in negotiations with China amid the ongoing tariff war.
Quoting President Donald Trump, Leavitt stated that “the ball is in China’s court,” highlighting that Chinese exporters need a renegotiated trade agreement to gain crucial access to American markets.
Leavitt explained that unlike other countries, China’s size and economic ambitions make it particularly reliant on the U.S. market.
“They need our money,” she reiterated, underscoring the significance of American consumers to China’s economy. Trump has made it clear that he is open to a deal, but it is up to China to initiate the negotiations.
The trade tension between the U.S. and China has escalated since Trump introduced his “Liberation Day” plan aimed at correcting trade imbalances.
While about 130 nations have opted for negotiation over retaliation, tariffs on Chinese imports remain at an aggressive 145%. In contrast, the Trump administration has paused increased tariffs for those countries willing to engage in discussions.
Leavitt also took the opportunity to mock former President Joe Biden, who was set to speak later that evening.
She expressed surprise that Biden would be addressing the public at night, joking about his typical early bedtime.
Overall, the administration continues to assert its leverage over China in the trade discussions, emphasizing the importance of American markets to the Chinese economy while maintaining a hardline stance on negotiating terms.
The U.S. aims to secure a deal that benefits American interests and addresses longstanding trade disparities.
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