It was a mistake for China to retaliate with bigger tariffs

"You mentioned the 70 countries or something like that. But I'm curious, under what conditions would President Trump speak with President Xi about tariffs at this moment?

Look, I just spoke with the president about this, and he believes that China wants to reach an agreement with the United States. He believes that China has to make a deal with the United States. It was a mistake for China to retaliate.

The president, when the U.S. gets hit, responds stronger. That's why there will be a 104% tariff going into effect against China tonight at midnight.

But the president believes that Xi and China want to make a deal. They just don't know how to start. And the president also wanted me to tell all of you that if China reaches out to make a deal, he will be incredibly generous. But he will do what is best for the American people.

So China has to call first. The Chinese want to make a deal. They just don't know how to do it, but the president will implement these 104% tariffs on China tonight.

I wonder under what conditions he might consider reducing tariffs on China right now. It would be unwise of me to tell you those conditions from this podium."