China warns US trade deals off if tariff hike goes ahead

China's government renewed its threat today to scrap deals with Washington aimed at defusing a sprawling trade dispute as the White House prepared to release a list of Chinese goods targeted for tariff hikes.

President Donald Trump has threatened to raise tariffs on up to USD 150 billion of Chinese goods in response to complaints about Beijing's trade surplus and technology policy. As part of that, the White House is due to issue a list tomorrow of USD 50 billion of Chinese goods targeted for a 25 per cent tariff.

In Beijing, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters he had constructive discussions with Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi, today.

"Our deficit with China is still too high," Pompeo said. "I stress how important it is for President Trump to rectify that situation so that trade becomes more balanced, more reciprocal and more fair, with the opportunity for American workers to be treated fairly."