Trump to set China tariffs in two to three weeks

Meantime, Trump hinted at a new tariff rate on China in the weeks ahead, seen as a de-escalation in the trade fight.

The American leader is also set to exempt carmakers from some U.S. tariffs.

Lee Seung-jae has the latest.

Currently,.. U.S. President Donald Trump has set tariffs on Chinese imports at 145%.

According to the U.S. leader, that number could come down significantly, but it'll be up to China.

Trump also hinted that a new tariff rate on Chinese imports could be decided in two to three weeks.

He also warned that if there is no deal between the two sides, Washington will unilaterally set the tariff rate.

Trump added that if China is unwilling to do business with the U.S., the rate will remain at 145%.

The comments come amid reports that the Trump administration is looking into lowering the tariff rate for China to the 50 to 65 percent range.

Trump also hinted at de-escalating tensions with China by saying on Tuesday, that 145% is too high, and that it will come down substantially.

Meanwhile, in another turnaround from the U.S. leader, he's now planning to exempt carmakers from some U.S. auto tariffs.

According to the Financial Times on Thursday, the latest move would exempt car parts from the tariffs that Trump has imposed on Chinese imports over the country's fentanyl production.

It also includes levies on steel and aluminum products.

Washington has been collecting a 25% tax on every car not assembled in the U.S, and a 25% tax on some imported auto parts is set to go into effect early May.

Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.