United States President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the tariff on Chinese goods will not approach the speculated rate of 145%. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated that the tariff rate "will come down substantially but won't be zero," signaling a more flexible approach to ongoing trade negotiations with Beijing.

The remarks came during the swearing-in ceremony of Paul Atkins, the new Chair of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Trump took the opportunity to emphasize his administration's position on trade policy, particularly in relation to China. "We're not going to play hardball. We're gonna be very nice. They're gonna be very nice," he said, suggesting a more conciliatory tone than in past negotiations.

Despite the softened rhetoric, Trump reiterated that China will ultimately have to strike a deal with the United States if it wishes to maintain trade access. "We're the ones that set the deal," he declared. "We're gonna be setting the deal and it'll be a fair deal for everybody." He added that the negotiation process is expected to proceed quickly, and warned that other countries would also need to come to terms with Washington’s conditions if they wish to engage in business with the U.S.

The president’s comments reflect a strategic shift toward a more collaborative but still assertive trade policy. By lowering expectations around tariff severity while maintaining leverage over future trade terms, the Trump administration appears focused on achieving a pragmatic agreement that can be framed as both tough and fair.

The anticipated easing of tariffs and potential resolution of trade tensions with China mark a key development in Trump's economic agenda. As talks progress, the international business community will be closely monitoring outcomes that could reshape global trade dynamics.