Donald Trump Rejects New Tariff Delay, Demands Substantial Concessions from China

US President Donald Trump has reiterated his commitment to his tariff policies and suggested that it would be highly unlikely for there to be another extension after the initial 90-day period. Trump is using this approach to increase pressure on other countries to finalize trade agreements with the US and avoid further tariffs. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Friday (25/04/2025), according to Bloomberg, he described the possibility of an extension as ‘unlikely.’ Additionally, he clarified that he does not intend to remove the tariffs imposed on China unless they offer ‘something substantial’ in return. He also reiterated his belief that financial markets are beginning to adjust to his tariff policy while downplaying the panic caused in stocks and bonds. ‘When you look at what’s happening, I think yes. I had said there would be a transition period. People didn’t understand it before, but now they’re starting to get it,’ he emphasized regarding the tariffs. Concerning the type of concessions he wants from China, Trump stated he would like them to open their economy, though he recognizes this might be improbable. ‘That would be great. It would be a huge win. But I’m not sure if I’ll ask for it because they don’t want to open their economy,’ he noted. ‘We have contacts with China. We’re going well with everyone,’ Trump told Time magazine in an interview published earlier on Friday. He added that he wouldn’t call Chinese President Xi Jinping unless the latter contacted him first, but later revealed there had been a call. ‘He called me. And I don’t consider that a sign of weakness on his part,’ Trump said, refusing to disclose when they spoke. ‘I’ll let you know at the right time. Let’s see if we can close a deal.’