China has refused U.S. President Donald Trump’s offer of tariff reductions in exchange for approving the sale of TikTok to a non-Chinese buyer.
The popular video platform, owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance, is at risk of being banned in the U.S. unless the company sells its American operations.
China’s Response
- Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Diakun reaffirmed China’s long-standing opposition to additional U.S. tariffs, emphasizing that Beijing’s position remains unchanged.
- The rejection follows Trump’s statement that he might lower tariffs on China to facilitate a deal for TikTok’s sale.
Trump’s Tariff Strategy
- On March 26, Trump announced new 25% tariffs on all imported cars and auto parts.
- Chinese EVs, already under a 100% tariff since August 2024, will now face a 125% tariff.
- U.S. import tariffs on all Chinese goods were raised to 20% in March, doubling previous rates.
TikTok’s Fate in the U.S.
- Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations until April 5.
- Without a deal, the app will be banned in the U.S., affecting 170 million users.
- Beijing’s approval remains the biggest obstacle in the multi-billion-dollar sale negotiations.
China has urged Washington to return to dialogue, but with mounting trade tensions and a looming TikTok ban, a resolution remains uncertain.
