China has said it's evaluating approaches from US officials to start negotiations about tariffs, a potential deescalation in the trade war that has raised hopes formal trade talks could start soon. "If we fight,

The standoff over terms of negotiations, and whether they are happening, signals that a protracted economic fight lies ahead.

China says it is “currently assessing” proposals by the United States to begin trade talks, in a subtle tone shift that could open the door for negotiations.