CHINESE DELEGATION SEEN LEAVING VENUE OF GENEVA TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH US, UNCLEAR IF TALKS WILL CONTINUE, WITNESSES SAY
— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) May 10, 2025
Going great mate 👍
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— Tarric Brooker aka Avid Commentator 🇦🇺 (@AvidCommentator) May 10, 2025
The sudden departure of China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng and his delegation from the Geneva trade negotiations with the U.S. has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles. The talks, which were expected to address escalating tariffs and trade restrictions, took an unexpected turn when the Chinese officials left without explanation. This abrupt exit raises serious questions about the future of U.S.-China trade relations and whether any progress can be salvaged from these discussions.
The meeting, held in Switzerland, was meant to be a crucial step toward de-escalating tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were leading the American side, hoping to negotiate a reduction in the massive tariffs imposed by both nations. With U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods reaching a staggering 145% and China retaliating with a 125% levy, the stakes could not be higher. These tariffs have disrupted global supply chains and rattled financial markets, leaving businesses on both sides scrambling for solutions.
Observers noted that the Chinese delegation’s departure was swift and unannounced. Witnesses reported seeing black Mercedes vans leaving the venue, adding to the mystery surrounding the walkout. Was this a calculated move by Beijing to exert pressure on Washington, or did internal disagreements within the delegation lead to the sudden exit? The lack of clarity only fuels speculation.
President Donald Trump, who has aggressively pushed for higher tariffs since returning to office, hinted at a possible reduction, stating on Truth Social that an “80% tariff seems right.” This statement suggests that Washington may be willing to negotiate, but with Beijing’s delegation walking out, the path forward remains uncertain.
Trade analysts have warned that if negotiations collapse entirely, the consequences could be severe. The ongoing tariff war has already strained economic ties, and a failure to reach an agreement could push both nations further into economic isolation.