The moves by China over the past week is quite typical in negotiations. In advance of a preplanned and rather important meeting, the Chinese side will push on the margins to elicit a reaction from their counterparty. The aim is to see HOW the other side chooses to respond. This provides critical information to the Chinese side as to whether the opponent has any real depth and breadth with counter action. By Trump simply going back to triple digit tariffs as the response very clearly telegraphs to the Chinese side that there is little in the way of alternative pressure points the American side can apply.