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On May 12, 2025, the US-China tariff pause was announced: a 90-day break from rising trade penalties that grabbed headlines across both nations. But if you compare the U.S. and Chinese media side by side, you’ll find two radically different stories.
Here’s a look at how the US-China tariff pause is being covered — and why the narratives matter.
U.S. Media: Relief, Caution, and Trump in the Spotlight
American outlets like CNBC and Reuters focused on the positive market response: Nasdaq futures surged 3.7%, while the S&P 500 climbed 2.7%. T
he US-China tariff pause was seen as immediate economic relief, especially for retailers and small business owners trying to navigate higher costs.
Some noted that while price hikes won’t vanish overnight, the risk of a prolonged trade war has temporarily eased.
Takeaway: U.S. coverage centers on short-term relief and a hopeful outlook for business stability.
Trump’s Reset, with Mixed Reviews
President Trump called the move a “total reset.” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the remaining 10% tariff as a “floor” for future leverage.
Media coverage, however, included contrasting views — with analysts arguing that the US-China tariff pause reflected pressure on the U.S. economy more than progress in negotiations.
Takeaway: Trump’s framing takes center stage, but skepticism simmers beneath the surface.
Unresolved Issues Still Loom
The temporary nature of the deal didn’t go unnoticed. Outlets like CBS News and The New York Times pointed to unresolved flashpoints — from electric vehicle tariffs to fentanyl-related trade disputes.
The pause was described as a tactical delay, not a breakthrough.
Takeaway: While optimism exists, most reports suggest the pause buys time, not resolution.
Chinese Media: U.S. Blinked, China Held Strong
Chinese state-run outlets like Xinhua and Global Times framed the US-China tariff pause as a forced U.S. retreat. They cited inflation, supply chain chaos, and a Q1 economic dip in the U.S. as key motivators. In this version of events, the U.S. came to the table out of necessity, not strength.
Takeaway: Chinese coverage casts the U.S. as faltering under its own economic weight.
Beijing’s Leverage on Display
The pause was described as a step in the right direction — but far from sufficient. Chinese officials reiterated demands for a full rollback of unilateral tariffs.
Beijing’s countermeasures, like 125% duties and rare earth export restrictions, were highlighted as successful pressure tactics that brought Washington to the negotiating table.
Takeaway: China’s state media stress strategic resilience, not compromise.
Still Wary, But Open to Talks
While the tone was largely defiant, Chinese coverage included caution. Outlets reported concern over the 30% tariffs that remain in place after the pause.
Interviews with exporters revealed temporary relief — but ongoing concern about long-term U.S. intentions.
Takeaway: Optimism is tempered by distrust, signaling that the pause is a fragile truce.
Final Takeaway
The US-China tariff pause may be the same on paper — but in the media, it’s two different stories.
For the U.S., it’s a cautious win. For China, it’s a vindication of resolve. Both sides agree on one thing: the next 90 days matter.
