Trump Emphasizes Strong US-China Relations While Avoiding Destructive Actions

Trump's Commitment to US-China Relations

During a recent meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, US President Donald Trump expressed his intention to foster a "great relationship" with China. He emphasized that while both nations possess significant leverage, he has no intention of using it in a way that could harm China. Trump stated, "We are going to have a great relationship with China... They have some cards. We have incredible cards, but I don’t want to play those cards. If I play those cards, that would destroy China. I am not going to play those cards."

Recent Executive Orders on Trade

Earlier this month, Trump enacted an executive order aimed at adjusting reciprocal tariff rates in light of ongoing discussions with China. He cited his constitutional authority and various US laws, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, to justify this action, which he deemed necessary to address trade imbalances and national security concerns.

This order builds upon Executive Order 14257 from April, where Trump identified persistent trade deficits as a significant threat to US national security and economy, leading to the imposition of certain tariffs. Following retaliatory measures from Beijing, subsequent orders in April 2025, namely Executive Orders 14259 and 14266, increased tariffs on imports from China.

In May 2025, Trump temporarily suspended additional tariffs on China for 90 days, replacing them with a revised duty rate. This suspension is set to expire at 12:01 a.m. EDT on August 12, 2025. The new order indicates that China is making progress in addressing trade issues, prompting Trump to extend the suspension until November 10, 2025.

The order specifies that certain tariff provisions will remain suspended until the new expiration date. Key officials, including the Secretaries of Commerce and Homeland Security, have been tasked with implementing this order, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and budget availability.

Clarifications on the Executive Order

Trump clarified that the measure is not intended to create any enforceable rights or benefits against the United States, emphasizing its implementation will adhere to existing laws.