GENEVA — U.S. and Chinese officials initiated crucial trade discussions in Geneva on Saturday, marking the first in-person talks since President Trump imposed a staggering 145% tariff on Chinese imports. This diplomatic effort comes amid increasing tensions and volatility in global financial markets, heavily impacted by recent import disruptions.
Taking place in a discreet Swiss villa overlooking Lake Geneva, the meetings are seen as a significant opportunity to resolve a trade war that has unsettled the economies of both nations. The U.S. delegation, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, the sole confirmed participant from China’s side.
Neither delegation has released public statements regarding the discussions, which commenced early Saturday. Just prior to these discussions, the United Kingdom managed to secure the first limited trade deal with the Trump administration, though it left significant 10% tariffs intact on most British goods.
Bessent emphasized the importance of engaging China, describing it as the “missing piece” in global trade talks. He had originally arrived in Geneva aiming to finalize an updated trading agreement with Swiss officials, who expressed optimism about reaching a deal within weeks.
Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter highlighted her country’s role as a facilitator in this dialogue between leading global economies, particularly as the fallout from tariffs continues to affect market forecasts. “This platform we can offer is meant to benefit the world economy and global commerce,” she stated during an interview.
As trade representatives gather in Geneva, there is an awareness that a swift resolution may not be forthcoming. Experts suggest that this meeting could represent only the beginning of extensive negotiations. “Both sides will be testing the waters to assess what a successful outcome looks like,” noted Dmitry Grozoubinski, executive director of a leading think tank focusing on trade issues.
