Trade talks between the US and China ended today in Beijing with each side apparently staking out positions the other side is unlikely to meet. An optimistic interpretation is that the two sides have laid out opening positions and set up a process for negotiations to resolve trade tensions. However, two documents are circulating that USCBC sources say accurately reflect positions presented by each side; if so, the gap to be overcome is wide.

As the deadline for comments approaches on the United States’ proposed list of tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese imports related to the Section 301 investigation into Chinese intellectual property and technology transfer policies, USCBC has received a clar

With escalating threats of tariffs and other retaliatory measures from both the US and Chinese sides, many analysts say the two countries are on the brink of a trade war. Both have released long lists of potential tariffs, which may not be implemented if the two sides can reach a negotiated settlement. Or, the tariff lists could be whittled down following a public comment period and only partially implemented.

The United States and China have both fired warning shots on the growing field of bilateral trade disputes, though the most significant battle is likely still weeks away. While both sides have announced proposed tariffs on $50 billion in imports in relation to the USTR’s investigation into China’s intellectual property and technology transfer policies, neither will be implemented immediately.