The United States has been proactively reaching out to China to resume talks on escalating tariffs, according to a Chinese state media outlet with ties to Beijing’s central leadership. The development signals a possible diplomatic opening in an intensifying trade standoff that has disrupted markets and global supply chains.

The claim was made Thursday by Yuyuan Tantian, a media channel affiliated with China’s state broadcaster CCTV, which cited unnamed sources. The outlet said U.S. officials had approached their Chinese counterparts “via multiple channels” to restart negotiations over steep tariff hikes on both sides.

“From a negotiation standpoint, the U.S. is currently the more anxious party,” the outlet stated on Weibo, China’s version of X, formerly known as Twitter. “The Trump administration is facing multiple pressures.”

Tariff hikes on both sides have reached historic highs. In April, the U.S. imposed duties of up to 145% on Chinese imports, while Beijing retaliated with new tariffs of 125% on U.S. goods, deepening a trade war that has sent shockwaves through industries and consumers worldwide.

Despite the Chinese reports, official lines remain blurred. China’s foreign ministry has neither confirmed nor denied the claims, while repeatedly calling for talks based on “fairness, respect, and reciprocity.” At the same time, Beijing has made clear it’s willing to go the distance in a trade confrontation. In a government-released video this week, China’s foreign ministry declared it would “never kneel down” in the face of U.S. pressure.

On the American side, President Donald Trump continues to maintain a confident tone. During a televised town hall on Wednesday, he claimed, “There’s a very good chance we’re going to make a deal,” but emphasized it would be “on our terms” and “fair.”

Analysts say the conflicting messages reflect a complex game of public posturing, as both sides test the waters without showing signs of weakness. While Beijing signals U.S. urgency, Washington insists it holds the upper hand.

The current impasse threatens to prolong the global economic uncertainty that began with the first wave of tariffs. For businesses caught in the middle—from electronics manufacturers to farmers—the question remains whether diplomacy will prevail or if the trade war is headed for an even more punishing phase.