U.S.-China talks in Madrid conclude first day, resume Monday

U.S. and Chinese delegations concluded their first day of trade talks in Madrid on Sunday, focusing on tariffs, TikTok, and the economy, with discussions set to resume Monday, a U.S. official said.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng wrapped up their Sunday meeting in Madrid, held at the Palacio de Santa Cruz, which houses Spain’s foreign ministry. Talks focused on TikTok, tariffs, and broader economic issues, with no further details disclosed.

The delegations plan to continue discussions on Monday, marking the fourth round of talks in four months held in European cities aimed at preventing the U.S.-China trade relationship from deteriorating under President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

Trade experts said the likelihood of a major breakthrough in Madrid was low, but the talks reflect ongoing efforts to manage tensions in the world’s two largest economies. Spain has been actively fostering stronger ties with Beijing in recent years, hosting the meeting as part of broader diplomatic engagement.

Earlier this week, China launched investigations targeting U.S. semiconductor imports and challenged American restrictions on its chip sector, highlighting tensions that remain at the core of the trade discussions.

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