US-China Trade Talks in Paris Chart Path for Trump-Xi Summit

US Treasury Secretary Bessent met Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Paris for a new round of trade talks, the sixth formal round.

“Top officials from the United States and China have launched a new round of talks before a summit between their presidents, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, expected in Beijing later this month”

Al Jazeera

The discussion covered shifting US tariffs, Chinese purchases of American agricultural products, critical minerals, export controls, and new mechanisms to manage trade.

Al Jazeera

CNBC described the talks as remarkably stable and candid and constructive.

AP noted the talks as preparatory work for Trump's state visit to Beijing.

The talks were framed as necessary dialogue amid growing economic uncertainty caused by the US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

The Chinese side showed openness to additional purchases of US agricultural goods including poultry, beef and non-soybean row crops.

Discussions also covered critical minerals and magnets, sectors affected by export controls.

Anadolu Ajansı

The talks were held at the Paris headquarters of the OECD, signaling a multilateral approach to managing risks.

The Trump administration launched a new trade investigation into 16 trading partners including China.

“Bessent will meet China’s vice premier in Paris ahead of Trump’s visit to Beijing Bessent will meet China’s vice premier in Paris ahead of Trump’s visit to Beijing WASHINGTON (AP) — U”

AP News

China's commerce ministry said it reserves the right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.

The new investigation came after a Supreme Court ruling struck down Trump's previous global tariffs.

This contradiction between dialogue and simultaneous punitive actions highlights the fragile nature of US-China economic relations.