Addressing the Trump team’s gripes over China’s role in the fentanyl crisis could let both sides soften trade stance.

After months of rising tariffs and trade tension, the US and China held high-stakes talks in Geneva. Officials signaled progress, but tariffs remain in place as both sides weigh next steps.

Chinese officials have long used their willingness to cooperate to stem the flow of fentanyl to the United States as leverage in talks over broader disputes.