Trump Urges China to Quadruple U.S. Soybean Imports as Tariff Truce Nears End

On August 11, 2025, President Donald Trump called on China to quadruple its imports of American soybeans, aiming to reduce the trade imbalance between the two nations. This appeal comes just before the expiration of a 90-day tariff truce between the United States and China, set to end on August 12.

The current truce, established in May 2025, temporarily reduced U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% and China's tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. Negotiations to extend the truce are ongoing, with a potential 90-day extension under consideration. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the decision ultimately rests with President Trump.

China is the world's largest importer of soybeans, bringing in approximately 105 million metric tons annually. Historically, less than a quarter of these imports have been sourced from the United States, with Brazil being the primary supplier. In the first half of 2025, China's imports of U.S. soybeans dropped by 39%, largely due to the imposed tariffs.

The American agricultural sector, particularly soybean farmers, has been significantly affected by these trade tensions. Industry experts warn that unless tariffs are lifted by fall, U.S. farmers may face severe challenges, as China continues to target agricultural goods in retaliation, impacting key exports such as soybeans, pork, beef, and corn.

Following President Trump's statement, soybean futures on the Chicago Board of Trade increased by 2.13%, reflecting market sensitivity to trade developments.

The expiration of the tariff truce and the outcome of these negotiations hold significant implications for global trade dynamics and market stability. The U.S. dollar remained steady ahead of key events, including the U.S. consumer price index report for July and the impending U.S.-China tariff negotiation deadline.

The current trade tensions are part of a broader pattern of U.S.-China trade disputes. Previous agreements, such as the Phase One trade deal, saw China committing to increased agricultural imports from the U.S., commitments that have not been fully realized.

As the deadline approaches, the decisions made will have lasting effects on global markets and the agricultural sectors of both nations.