<h1>U.S.-China trade posture softening, signaling lower targeted tariffs and pragmatic engagement amid sustained strategic rivalry.</h1> President Trump has moderated campaign-era tariff threats toward China, signalling preference for lower, targeted measures tied to specific concerns while leaving broader tariff decisions open. The administration projects mixed posture: presidential pragmatism and direct engagement with China coexist with hawkish cabinet and congressional voices advocating alliance-based deterrence and economic-security tools. China has reciprocated with cautious openness to negotiation on select commercial issues but retains robust legal and regulatory options-tariffs, export controls, sanctions and market restrictions-to respond swiftly if bilateral relations deteriorate.