Beijing has declined to confirm a post-inauguration conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, despite Trump's claim that they spoke. China's foreign ministry only acknowledged a call on January 17, before Trump's second term began. Amid rising trade tensions, Trump has imposed a 10 per cent tariff on Chinese goods, prompting Beijing to retaliate. Meanwhile, he temporarily paused new tariffs on Mexico and Canada following talks with their leaders. Observers are closely watching for any signs of US-China trade de-escalation.