Kevin Hassett, the Director of the White House National Economic Council, expressed optimism on Sunday regarding upcoming trade negotiations between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Hassett, during an appearance on ABC News’ “This Week,” indicated that both leaders are expected to discuss tariffs this week.
“President Trump, we expect, is going to have a wonderful conversation about the trade negotiations this week with President Xi. That’s our expectation,” Hassett stated while speaking with anchor George Stephanopoulos.
Currently, goods imported from China face a 30% tariff, a significant reduction from the original 145% that Trump had imposed. This reduction followed a 90-day reprieve aimed at facilitating discussions for a broader trade agreement between the two nations.
Although Hassett did not specify the exact timing of the anticipated dialogue, he noted that both sides seem keen on communicating. “I’m not sure, George, because you never know in international relations, but my expectation is that both sides have expressed a willingness to talk,” he said. He emphasized that conversations between U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and counterparts inChina are ongoing on a daily basis, aimed at progressing the negotiations.
Hassett’s comments come amid legal challenges to Trump’s tariffs, which have been contested in court. Recently, an appeals court reinstated the tariffs after a temporary block from the Court of International Trade, which had ruled that the Trump administration’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act was not a valid basis for imposing “unlimited” tariffs. The Trump administration has argued that this court decision could hinder ongoing trade negotiations.
During the interview, Stephanopoulos inquired about the confidence level in the Supreme Court upholding the tariffs and what might occur if they do not. Hassett responded, “We have studied every possible way that President Trump’s tariff agenda could be pursued,” referencing their strategic approach dating back to 2017.
He expressed confidence in their legal strategy, describing Jamieson Greer as an exceptionally capable trade lawyer, and asserted that the approach being pursued is both rapid and legally sound. “We are very thrilled. We are very confident that the judges will uphold this law,” he affirmed.
Hassett also suggested that there are alternative plans in place should the courts rule against the tariffs, aiming to maintain efforts to ensure fair trade practices in the U.S.
As to the potential for an agreement this week, Hassett indicated that developments might be imminent. “I expected that we were going to probably see one perhaps as early as last week,” he stated. He noted that the trade team has been intently focused on the negotiations with China, particularly regarding supply license issues that have been encountering delays.
Once these matters are resolved, Hassett indicated that deals would be brought to the Oval Office for the president’s consideration, highlighting the commitment to advancing trade discussions swiftly.
In light of the multiple challenges faced by Trump’s substantial legislative proposals in the Senate, Hassett was asked about the president’s ability to meet his deadlines. He did not specifically address the deadlines but referenced the complexities involved in passing a comprehensive trade deal.
As the negotiations loom, all eyes remain on the upcoming conversation between Trump and Xi, with both countries navigating a path toward potential agreement amid existing tariffs and ongoing legal considerations.
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