Sino-American trade talks in Geneva halted: Chinese delegation abruptly withdrew from the venue
On May 10, 2025, high-level economic and trade negotiations between the US and China were held in Geneva, Switzerland. The Chinese delegation abruptly left the venue, causing the talks to be interrupted, and the US representatives subsequently left as well. This meeting marked the first formal engagement between the two sides since the escalation of high-tariff tensions, aimed at finding a way to ease tensions. Both parties had previously expressed openness to dialogue, but the sudden turn of events cast doubt on the future of the negotiations.
Key Updates
05/10 11:29
Sino-American trade talks in Geneva halted: Chinese delegation abruptly withdrew from the venue
On May 10, 2025, high-level economic and trade negotiations between the US and China were held in Geneva, Switzerland. The Chinese delegation abruptly left the venue, causing the talks to be interrupted, and the US representatives subsequently left as well. This meeting marked the first formal engagement between the two sides since the escalation of high-tariff tensions, aimed at finding a way to ease tensions. Both parties had previously expressed openness to dialogue, but the sudden turn of events cast doubt on the future of the negotiations.
Background and Preparation for the Talks
The talks were held after U.S. President Trump announced in April the imposition of tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese goods. China responded immediately with retaliatory tariffs as high as 125%, rapidly escalating trade tensions between the two sides. According to a report by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng led the Chinese delegation to Switzerland for talks with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Both sides emphasized the importance of dialogue before the talks. Through the People's Daily, China expressed its willingness to engage in constructive communication with the U.S. on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, emphasizing that "dialogue" is necessary to resolve differences. The U.S. expressed hope that the talks would pave the way for subsequent negotiations and hinted at the possibility of lowering tariffs. President Trump stated on social media that an 80% tariff on Chinese goods "seems reasonable" and left the final decision to Treasury Secretary Bessent.
Conduct of the Talks and Unexpected Events
According to multiple media reports, the talks were held on the morning of May 10, local time, at a private residence in the suburbs of Geneva. There was a heavy police presence around the venue, and both delegations entered and exited discreetly. According to Reuters and Hong Kong 01, citing reporters on the scene, the Chinese delegation abruptly left the venue without providing an explanation, causing the talks to be interrupted. The U.S. delegation also left the scene shortly thereafter.
Neither side has yet issued an official statement regarding the withdrawal incident. According to TVBS, the delegations had a meal together during the talks, after which the Chinese side did not return to the venue. U.S. officials have not commented on the incident.
Positions and Official Statements
On the eve of the talks, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and state media repeatedly emphasized that the talks were held "at the request of the U.S." and reiterated that China would not compromise on core interests. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated that if the U.S. continues to push for unfair high tariff policies, China will "stand firm to the end." Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying also stated on May 9 that the Trump administration's approach is "unsustainable," and China is confident in addressing trade challenges.
The U.S. emphasized its hope to ease trade tensions through the talks. White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated that the atmosphere was "respectful and cooperative." U.S. Trade Representative Greer noted that China's dispatch of high-level officials with decision-making power showed its importance to the talks.
Discussion Topics and Unfinished Business
According to various reports, the talks were originally set to discuss topics including tariff adjustments, control over the flow of fentanyl precursors, restrictions on China's rare earth exports, the restoration of parts of the 2020 "Phase One Trade Agreement," and whether China would expand its purchase of U.S. agricultural products and energy.
Additionally, the U.S. was concerned about China's subsidy policies for high-tech industries and technology transfer issues. China emphasized that any negotiations must be based on mutual respect and equal consultation and refused to make unilateral concessions.
International and Market Atmosphere Before the Talks
The talks attracted global attention. According to Ta Kung Pao and Yuanyuan Tantian, China's decision to engage with the U.S. was driven by "global expectations, China's interests, and demands from U.S. industries." Chinese state media pointed out that there are no winners in a trade war, and China is willing to engage in dialogue but will not accept pressure and coercion.
In the U.S., there was pressure from businesses and consumers. According to CBS, since April, the average price of goods on U.S. e-commerce platforms has risen by nearly 30%, with supply chain tensions and rising prices causing public dissatisfaction. The Trump administration hoped to send a signal of stability through negotiations.
Follow-up and Reactions
As of now, neither side has issued an official statement regarding the Chinese delegation's withdrawal from the venue. According to Yahoo News, some analysts believe the talks were originally intended as "preliminary contacts" to understand each other's bottom lines and positions, without expecting concrete agreements.
Deutsche Welle pointed out that there were differences between the two sides before the talks, including how to handle the fentanyl issue and the selection of participating officials. China expressed dissatisfaction with the content of a letter sent by the U.S. in late April, deeming it "arrogant and disrespectful." Additionally, the recent replacement of U.S. diplomatic personnel in China has created communication gaps between the two sides.
