Trump could have handled it better by not gloating over other countries coming to the table. It would have been wiser to simply point out the benefits of going to a zero tariff trade policy for all nations, but instead, he had to make it more about himself and how smart he is. The Chinese are very prideful people that respond to respect, not threats. If he can just humble himself though this process, we might be able to make a deal. Right now, they are willing to wait for the next election cycle where things can change back in their favor with a much weaker president in charge.
Weak president =

China
Strong president =

China
I still cannot get over the last administration allowing a Chinese spy balloon to float over the US as if it was perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. What kind of leader would allow such a thing to happen willingly?