In recent weeks, the Trump administration has engaged in direct talks with Chinese counterparts, mostly between the top staff at the Chinese embassy in Washington and the U.S. National Security Council, the four U.S. officials said. Staff at the U.S. embassy in Beijing have also been involved.

After the US president hit China with tariffs of over 100%, Beijing retaliates with higher taxes on American imports.

Beijing continues to be willing to endure economic hardship to put pressure on the U.S., even as the Trump administration hints at a more conciliatory approach.