Trump offers to lift China tariffs if Beijing limits fentanyl exports

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Washington is ready to eliminate all remaining tariffs on Chinese products tied to fentanyl if Beijing enforces stricter measures against the export of the synthetic opioid and its chemical ingredients. The statement came shortly after Trump halved existing duties from 20% to 10%, signaling a potential shift in U.S.-China trade relations.

Talks with Xi Jinping during Asia visit

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had discussed the fentanyl issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping while in South Korea. “China is working very hard, and I believe they have a real incentive,” he noted, adding that the U.S. would lift the remaining tariffs “as soon as we see that progress.” The exchange underscored how the opioid crisis has become a central factor in trade diplomacy between Washington and Beijing.

Agricultural trade and economic gains

Trump also emphasized that his Asia tour yielded significant economic results, claiming the U.S. “took in approximately $3 trillion over the last few days.” He pointed to new Chinese commitments to purchase record amounts of American soybeans and other agricultural goods, describing the development as a boost for U.S. farmers. “They should go buy bigger tractors and more land,” he remarked with optimism.

Strategic trade exchanges and rare earths

In earlier remarks, Trump confirmed that China would resume major imports of U.S. farm products in exchange for the U.S. maintaining open access to rare earth minerals—critical resources used in technology and defense industries. The evolving trade dynamic comes as both nations attempt to balance economic cooperation with domestic policy concerns, while Türkiye continues to monitor the broader global implications for agricultural and industrial markets.