China Denies Trade Talks With U.S., Calls Trump’s Claims ‘Fake News’

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday flatly denied that any trade negotiations are currently underway with the United States, directly contradicting recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Responding to questions at a press briefing, ministry spokeswoman Guo Jiakun dismissed the notion of renewed talks as “fake news,” signaling a hardline stance from Beijing despite speculation that tensions between the two economic superpowers might be easing.

“There are no trade negotiations taking place between China and the United States at this time,” Guo said. “Any claims suggesting otherwise are entirely false.”

The denial comes after President Trump claimed earlier this week that Chinese officials had reached out to initiate discussions on scaling back the steep tariffs he reimposed upon returning to office in January. Trump’s remarks had fueled speculation of a potential thaw in U.S.-China economic relations, prompting short-term market optimism.

However, Beijing’s strong rebuttal appears to have dampened those hopes, casting doubt over the prospect of any near-term breakthrough. Trade tensions between the two nations remain high, with tariffs affecting hundreds of billions of dollars in goods and contributing to global supply chain uncertainty.

Analysts say China’s public rejection may reflect growing frustration with Washington’s unilateral trade measures and a desire to maintain a firm negotiating position.

The U.S. has not formally responded to Beijing’s denial, but administration officials have so far offered no documentation or confirmation to substantiate Trump’s claims of backchannel talks.

With both sides sticking to sharply different narratives, prospects for renewed U.S.-China trade diplomacy appear increasingly uncertain.