Trump and Xi talks delayed as tariff war looms

As Washington moves forward with sweeping duties on Chinese imports, Beijing is responding with targeted measures of its own, though possible talks between the leaders of the two sides have not been completely ruled out.

Our Moon Hye-ryeon reports.

U.S. President Donald Trump says he's in no rush to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping as tensions rise between the world's two largest economies.

This comes as the U.S. imposed an additional ten percent tariff on all Chinese imports starting Tuesday – prompting a measured response from Beijing in the form of tariffs on American goods such as coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as possible sanctions on major U.S. companies.

When asked about the tit-for-tat levies, Trump remained unfazed and reportedly said, "That's fine."

A White House official said that no call between the two leaders has been scheduled as of Tuesday.

Beijing's tariffs are due to take effect starting next week, leaving room for negotiations.

However, Trump has hinted that even higher tariffs could be on the table unless China addresses the supply of chemicals used to make the powerful opioid fentanyl to countries including Mexico, which is then smuggled into the U.S.

Trump also suggested that the European Union could be next, prompting Brussels to keep a close watch on this latest round of trade measures.

The head of the EU's executive European Commission spoke out and said it is prepared to protect its own interest if the U.S. shifts its attention to the EU.

"We will be ready for tough negotiations where needed and to find solutions where possible, to work out any grievances and to set the foundations for a stronger partnership. We will be open and pragmatic in how to achieve that but we will make it equally clear that we will always protect our own interests however and whenever that is needed."

She said it is simply "smart business" for the U.S. and the EU to strike the right balance between safeguarding security and working on where their mutual interests converge in trade and investment.

Mexico was also part of Trump's lineup for steep tariffs, but a deal to send 10 thousand members of the country's National Guard to curb fentanyl trafficking at the border pushed back the levies for a month.

On Tuesday, it was reported that Mexico began moving its troops to its northern border as part of its deal, with photos and videos circulating on social media showing reinforcements arriving in regions where some cities are frequently affected by drug cartel violence.

The Mexican President said that the troops would also assist in maintaining overall security at the border.

Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.