China Weighs Fentanyl Talks to Ease Trade War

China is signaling readiness to use cooperation on fentanyl as leverage to restart trade negotiations with the United States amid escalating tariffs, which have reached up to 145% on some goods. Chinese officials, including Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong, have asked what specific actions the Trump administration seeks regarding the flow of fentanyl precursor chemicals from China. Beijing is reportedly considering sending Wang to meet with Trump officials, possibly in a neutral country, to discuss curbing fentanyl exports as an 'icebreaker' for broader talks. While China has previously resisted blame for the US fentanyl crisis, it now appears more open to negotiations if the U.S. demonstrates sincerity. Both countries are facing mounting economic strain, increasing pressure for a diplomatic resolution. The issue of fentanyl continues to be a key factor shaping the course of U.S.-China relations.