The ongoing debate over U.S.-China trade relations has once again taken center stage as Geoffrey Bessent, a prominent economic analyst and investor, stated that no agreement on reducing or lifting China tariffs will move forward without direct approval from former President Donald Trump. His comments highlight the weight Trump continues to carry over trade policy discussions, especially with the 2024 U.S. presidential election in focus.

Bessent’s remarks came amid renewed talks about easing tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. He emphasized that any significant policy shift will require Trump’s explicit backing, regardless of who holds office. According to Bessent, markets are waiting for clear signals that trade tensions with China will stabilize, but political uncertainty is keeping businesses cautious.

Trump’s tariffs, introduced during his presidency as part of a broader strategy to address trade imbalances and protect U.S. manufacturing, have had mixed effects. While some industries benefited from protective measures, others faced higher costs due to increased prices on imported goods. The Biden administration has maintained many of these tariffs, balancing pressure from domestic industries with the need to ease inflationary impacts.

Bessent argued that any potential tariff deal must be seen as “Trump-approved” to gain credibility among investors and policymakers. His statement underscores the former president’s influence over economic policy debates, suggesting that even if negotiations progress under the current administration, their long-term viability hinges on Trump’s stance.

Economists note that the lack of a clear resolution prolongs uncertainty for global markets. Companies reliant on U.S.-China supply chains are facing challenges in planning investments and production strategies. Analysts also point out that a delay in tariff negotiations could affect trade flows, manufacturing costs, and consumer prices in the months ahead.

As the U.S. political landscape heats up ahead of the election season, Bessent’s comments serve as a reminder of how deeply trade policy is intertwined with domestic politics. Whether or not an agreement is reached, the outcome of the 2024 race is likely to determine the future of U.S.-China economic relations.