Washington: US President Donald Trump said Sunday that China is paying 'a tremendous amount of money' in tariffs to the United States and suggested he may consider lowering them if Beijing makes new concessions as he prepares for a trip to Asia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump told reporters upon his return to Washington that there is a very good relationship with President Xi Jinping of China. He mentioned that China is paying a lot of money, a tremendous amount in tariffs, and likely prefers a reduction. However, he emphasized that concessions from China are necessary for any tariff adjustments.

Trump highlighted that China currently faces record-setting tariffs, including a 20% rate on fentanyl-related imports and a cumulative tariff rate of about 157% on certain Chinese goods. He expressed openness to adjustments in these tariffs depending on the progress of ongoing talks.

The president expressed a desire to support China rather than harm it, but insisted that trade relations should not be one-sided. He confirmed plans to visit South Korea and other Asian nations in the near future, with trade, security, and regional cooperation expected to dominate the discussions.