China's Foreign Ministry denied on Thursday any ongoing negotiations between China and the United States over the tariff issue, reiterating that dialogue and negotiations on the issue must be based on equality, respect and mutual benefit.

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Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for the ministry, rejected reports from the US side that Beijing and Washington are in negotiations and will even reach a deal, calling such claims "fake news".

"As far as I know, China and the US have not held consultations or negotiations on the tariff issue, let alone reached any agreement," Guo told a daily news conference.

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The tariff war was initiated by the US, he said, stressing that China's position has been consistent and clear: "If it's to fight, we'll fight till the end. If it's to talk, our door is wide open."