US-China Trade Talks: Trump Anticipates Positive Outcomes
President Donald Trump speaks at an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation CEO luncheon in Gyeongju, South Korea, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. Mark Schiefelbein/AP
In a strategic move to address ongoing trade tensions, President Donald Trump forecasted a favorable trade agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping at an Asia-Pacific Economic Forum gathering in South Korea. Trump conveyed optimism about the potential deal during his address to APEC business leaders.
“I think we’re going have a deal, I think it will be a good deal for both, and that’s really a great result,” Trump stated at the luncheon. He emphasized the need for collaboration over conflict, particularly ahead of his scheduled meeting with Xi Jinping.
Trump hinted at the possibility of reducing tariffs on Chinese goods if China commits to limiting the export of chemicals used in fentanyl production. “I expect to be lowering that because I believe that they’re going to help us with the fentanyl situation,” Trump mentioned while traveling to Gyeongju.
The current 20% tariff on Chinese imports has been a point of contention, implemented over concerns about China’s role in the fentanyl crisis. In retaliation, China has imposed tariffs on U.S. soybeans, leading to recent negotiations in Malaysia aimed at reviving trade relations, including China’s purchase of U.S. soybeans.
The potential agreement also involves China postponing export restrictions on rare earth elements and the U.S. refraining from increasing tariffs by 100%. Both nations have accused each other of economic tactics that harm global markets.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticized China’s rare earth policies, stating, “This is China versus the world. They have pointed a bazooka at the supply chains and the industrial base of the entire free world, and we’re not going to have it.”
Meanwhile, Zhu Feng from Nanjing University commented on the U.S.’s aggressive tariff strategies, noting that they threaten globalization. He highlighted additional U.S. measures, such as increased port fees and potential restrictions on Chinese-operated flights and software exports.
In addition to trade talks, Trump intends to discuss nuclear arms control with Xi, potentially involving China in broader U.S.-Russia negotiations. However, any revival of discussions with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un seems unlikely during this trip.
During discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump confirmed that his primary focus is the meeting with Xi. He acknowledged the ongoing conflict between North and South Korea, expressing a commitment to contribute to peace efforts.
While Trump was in South Korea, North Korea announced successful cruise missile tests, adding another layer of complexity to the regional dynamics.
