China and the United States are resuming high-level communication, with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng expressing his concern about the new tariffs imposed by the U.S. during a video call with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Both countries acknowledged the importance of their economic and trade relations, agreeing to maintain ongoing communication on mutually relevant issues.
He Lifeng voiced his concern over the tariff increases on Chinese products and other U.S. restrictions during the call on February 21. This was the second communication between senior officials of both nations since President Trump took office. Janet Yellen, Bessent's predecessor, had multiple interactions with He, highlighting the importance of continuous dialogue with Beijing.
Regarding claims about fentanyl, China viewed them as a pretext for the tariffs imposed by the U.S. and expressed its concern about the recent increase in tariffs. While Bessent described the call as introductory, he made it clear that he hoped it would be productive. In particular, he emphasized the need for China to rebalance its economy towards consumption.
For his part, Trump mentioned the possibility of reaching a new trade deal with China, showing openness to avoiding further escalation in the trade dispute between the two powers. The United States imposed a 10 percent tariff on all Chinese imports, citing concerns about fentanyl.
