Senior officials from the United States and China will meet in Switzerland this week for high-level talks aimed at easing trade tensions between the world's two largest economies.

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng is scheduled to attend the negotiations from 9 to 12 May, according to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representing Washington will be US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, both of whom confirmed their participation earlier this week.

The talks come amid heightened trade frictions following a wave of fresh tariffs imposed by both sides. Since returning to office, US President Donald Trump has levied duties of up to 145% on a wide range of Chinese imports. Beijing has responded with retaliatory tariffs on American goods, some as high as 125%.

"This is about de-escalation," Mr Bessent told Fox News. "Before we can pursue any broader trade agreement, we must first reduce tensions and restore stability."

In Beijing, a Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson said Washington must "acknowledge the damage its unilateral tariffs have caused globally" if it hopes for meaningful progress.

Chinese state media said the decision to engage in talks was based on international expectations, national interests, and appeals from American businesses. However, it warned that China was prepared to continue the trade conflict "to the end" if necessary.

The economic fallout from the tariff dispute has unsettled global markets and disrupted supply chains. Asian stocks were mixed following news of the meeting, while US futures rose ahead of an anticipated interest rate decision by the Federal Reserve.

Trade analysts remain cautious. "This won't be a breakthrough moment," said Deborah Elms of the Hinrich Foundation. "But it's a necessary first step."

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