Trump ‘Optimistic’ About Potential Tariff Deal with China [WATCH]

President Donald Trump is “optimistic” that the United States and China could reach an agreement to resolve the ongoing trade dispute, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Friday, following another sharp escalation by Beijing in the tariff standoff.

Leavitt’s comments came shortly after China announced it was raising tariffs on U.S. imports from 84% to 125%, a move seen as retaliation in the ongoing trade conflict with the Trump administration.

“The president has made it very clear he’s open to a deal with China,” Leavitt told reporters during a briefing.

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She emphasized that Trump remains “optimistic” about the possibility of reaching a resolution.

“The president … would be gracious if China intends to make a deal with the United States,” Leavitt said.

“If China continues to retaliate, it’s not good for China. The United States of America is the strongest, best economy in the world, as evidenced by the more than 75 countries who have called the administration immediately to cut good deals.”

Leavitt reiterated that the administration’s trade goals remain focused on delivering results for American workers and businesses.

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“So, the president wants to do what’s right for the American people. He wants to see fair trade practices around the globe, and that’s his intention and his goal,” she said.

When asked if the president was waiting for Beijing to make the first move toward resolving the conflict, Leavitt declined to offer specifics.

“I’m not going to comment on communications that are happening or may not be happening,” she stated.

She noted that the administration’s national security officials are prepared to initiate talks as needed.

“Our national security team can get these discussions underway. And as always, in the effort of transparency, we will provide updates, moving forward,” Leavitt added.

In addition to commenting on U.S.-China relations, Leavitt confirmed progress on separate trade negotiations with another unidentified nation.

She described the development as “very good progress” concerning the global tariffs recently imposed by the Trump administration.

“I won’t reveal or get ahead of our trade team, as these negotiations are obviously ongoing,” she said.

The latest round of tariffs from China follows a series of back-and-forth policy measures between the two economic powers.

Trump’s administration has imposed sweeping tariffs as part of a broader strategy to level the playing field in global trade and address long-standing concerns over intellectual property theft, market access, and currency manipulation by the Chinese government.

The president’s approach has drawn international attention, with several countries reaching out to Washington to pursue bilateral trade agreements amid the global realignment triggered by U.S. tariff policy.

Leavitt’s remarks Friday indicate the White House remains open to negotiating with key partners, including Beijing, while maintaining a firm stance on protecting American interests.

The situation continues to develop as markets, foreign governments, and U.S. industries await signs of a breakthrough.

The administration has not provided a timeline for any potential deal with China, but officials indicated that discussions could begin soon, contingent on China’s willingness to participate in meaningful negotiations.

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