Trump Seeks 'Total Reset' in US-China Trade

Geneva, Switzerland— Former U.S. Following a series of high-level negotiations in Geneva, President Donald Trump has announced a "total reset" in trade relations between the United States and China. The discussions, held between senior economic officials from both nations, sought to address years of escalating tariffs, intellectual property disputes, and supply chain tensions that have strained the world’s two largest economies.

The talks were framed as a historic breakthrough by Trump, who continues to be a dominant figure in U.S. trade policy discussions. “We’ve achieved a total reset in U.S.-China trade relations,” he told reporters outside the negotiation venue. “The failed policies of the past are being replaced with strong, fair deals that put American workers and businesses first.”

While full details of the agreement have yet to be disclosed, preliminary reports suggest that the discussions focused on reducing tariffs on key goods, easing technology export restrictions, and establishing stronger enforcement mechanisms against intellectual property theft—a long-standing point of contention between Washington and Beijing.

Background: The US-China Trade War and Trump’s Legacy

The Geneva talks mark the latest chapter in a years-long economic struggle that began under Trump’s presidency. In 2018, his administration imposed tens of billions of dollars in tariffs on Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices, forced technology transfers, and intellectual property violations. China retaliated with its own tariffs, sparking a full-blown trade war that disrupted global markets and raised costs for businesses and consumers.

Despite a Phase One trade deal signed in 2020, tensions persisted, and many of the tariffs remained in place under the Biden administration. Trump has repeatedly criticized President Joe Biden for what he calls “weak negotiations” with China, arguing that the U.S. lost leverage after he left office.

“We had China on the ropes with tariffs, and then the Biden team let them off the hook,” Trump said in a recent rally. His involvement in the Geneva talks signals his continued influence over Republican trade policy and his efforts to shape economic strategy ahead of a potential 2024 presidential run.

What Was Discussed in Geneva? Key Points from the Talks

While official statements from both sides have been measured, sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that several critical issues were on the table:

1. Tariff Reductions

The U.S. may scale back some Trump-era tariffs on Chinese electronics, machinery, and consumer goods.

In return, China could lower barriers on American agricultural exports, such as soybeans and pork, which were heavily impacted during the trade war.

2. Intellectual Property & Technology Controls

A major U.S. demand has been stronger protections against Chinese theft of American patents and trade secrets.

The Biden administration has also restricted advanced semiconductor exports to China, a policy Trump may have discussed adjusting in exchange for concessions.

3. Supply Chain Stability

Both nations have an interest in avoiding further disruptions like those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Discussions may have touched on reshoring critical manufacturing while maintaining some level of trade cooperation.

4. Enforcement Mechanisms

Past agreements have faltered due to a lack of verifiable compliance.

A potential new framework could include stricter monitoring and penalties for violations.

Reactions: Optimism, Skepticism, and Geopolitical Realities

Trump’s Supporters: A Return to ‘America First’ Trade Policy

The talks have been hailed as a step toward restoring U.S. economic leverage by conservative economists and supporters of Trump. “President Trump proved that tough negotiations work,” said Robert Lighthizer, former U.S. Trade Representative under Trump. “If these talks lead to enforceable commitments, it could be a major win for American industry.”

Critics: Is This Just Political Theater?

Some analysts caution that Trump’s “reset” claim may be premature.

“Announcing a ‘total reset’ without concrete details feels more like a campaign soundbite than a substantive shift,” said Dr. Emily Benson of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). “The real question is whether China will actually change its trade practices.”

China’s Response: Measured but Noncommittal

Chinese state media has downplayed the significance of the talks, with the Commerce Ministry calling them “constructive but preliminary.”

An editorial in the Global Times (a state-run outlet) warned, “The U.S. cannot expect unilateral concessions. Any deal must be based on mutual respect.”

This suggests that while Beijing may be open to limited compromises, it is unlikely to make sweeping changes to its economic policies.

Broader Implications: Trade, Politics, and the 2024 Election

Impact on Global Markets

If the talks lead to real tariff reductions, businesses reliant on U.S.-China trade could see relief from rising costs. However, if the deal collapses (as past agreements have), markets may face renewed volatility.

Trump's Plan for the 2024 Election In his potential reelection campaign, Trump is likely to make use of this development to argue that he alone is capable of successfully negotiating with China. “Biden’s approach has been weak, but we’re showing strength again,” Trump said, framing the Geneva talks as proof of his deal-making prowess.

The Taiwan Factor

Trade talks remain intertwined with broader U.S.-China tensions, particularly over Taiwan. If Beijing perceives U.S. trade policy as too aggressive, it could retaliate with military posturing or economic coercion, complicating any economic détente.

Conclusion: A Real Reset or Just Rhetoric?

While Trump’s declaration of a “total reset” is bold, the true test will be whether the Geneva talks translate into lasting policy changes. Given the history of U.S.-China trade disputes, skepticism is warranted—but if even partial agreements are implemented, businesses and consumers could benefit from reduced economic friction.

As both nations move forward, the world will be watching to see whether this is the beginning of a new era of cooperation—or simply another temporary truce in an ongoing economic cold war