Trump to meet China’s Xi in two weeks, describes 100% tariffs as unsustainable

US President Donald Trump has announced he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in two weeks, signaling a potential easing of tensions after a turbulent week in US-China trade relations.

Trump, who recently imposed a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports, admitted on Friday that such a measure would be “not sustainable” over the long term. “It’s not sustainable, but that’s what the number is,” he told Fox Business Network, adding that the action was prompted by Beijing’s policies.

The announcement comes after days of sharp exchanges between the two countries. Last week, Trump accused China of trying to “hold the world captive” through new export controls on rare earth materials — critical for electric vehicles, semiconductors, and defense systems. Initially, he had said there was “no reason” to meet Xi at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea.

China strongly opposed the proposed tariffs, accusing Washington of applying “arbitrary double standards” that harm bilateral trade talks. “China does not want to fight, but is not afraid to fight,” said the Commerce Ministry, calling the US tariff plan a “classic case of double standards.”

The Trump administration has alternated between confrontation and conciliation. While Trump emphasized a willingness to maintain good relations, his government pressed ahead with trade restrictions, including controls on US software exports starting November 1. Vice President JD Vance also urged Beijing to “choose the path of reason” and warned that Washington would defend its interests if necessary.

Trump’s latest statements and the scheduled meeting with Xi suggest an attempt to de-escalate tensions and create space for dialogue, offering both countries a chance to reset trade negotiations amid ongoing economic friction.