Trump Signals Shift in U.S.-China Relations, Easing Tariff Concerns

（This article has been updated on Jan.24, 2025 to make the text concise and cohesive)

Recent signs suggest that U.S. President Trump is softening his stance on China. In his recent speeches, he mentioned that he would prefer not to impose tariffs on China, marking a significant shift from his previous position.

This change in tone follows his executive order extending the TikTok ban by 75 days. At the same time, Trump proposed that the U.S. government should hold a 50% stake in TikTok. The original ban on the popular short-video app was initiated during Trump’s first term and later passed by Congress, with former President Biden signing it into law.

Trump’s comments, expressing a desire to “get along with China” and praising Chinese President Xi Jinping, all point to a clear conclusion: Trump may be warming up to China. This shift has been welcomed by Chinese investors, with the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets both posting gains on Friday, just days before the start of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Snake), beginning on January 29.

Some observers see Trump’s change in approach as part of a “honeymoon period” in his second term. In his first term, Trump took a tough stance on China, sparking a trade war and imposing tariffs on many Chinese goods. However, this time, Beijing has stepped in to stabilize stock markets amid uncertainty surrounding Trump’s tariff policies. It seems the relationship between the two nations could be on the path to recovery, if not improvement.

Looking ahead, one key issue to watch is the U.S. exit from the World Health Organization. Some believe this move could open the door for China to expand its influence on the global stage.

In a related development, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently had a phone conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Wang reportedly told Rubio to “haoziweizhi,” meaning to do his part responsibly.

Beijing has not yet indicated whether it will lift the sanctions on Rubio, which currently prevent him from entering China.