US and China say trade deal drawing closer as Trump and Xi prepare for meeting
In a significant development in international trade relations, China’s chief trade negotiator, Li Chenggang, announced that a “preliminary consensus” has been reached in discussions with the United States. This statement comes amid ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving trade tensions that have persisted between the two economic powerhouses. The announcement was made during a press conference where Li highlighted the constructive dialogue that has taken place, suggesting that both sides are moving toward a more stable trade environment. This consensus could pave the way for further discussions and potentially lead to a resolution of tariffs and trade barriers that have impacted businesses and consumers in both countries.
Adding to the positive sentiment, Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, echoed Li’s optimism by describing the negotiations as having established “a very successful framework.” His remarks indicate a mutual recognition of the importance of these talks in addressing long-standing issues, including intellectual property rights, trade imbalances, and market access. The framework discussed is expected to facilitate a more structured approach to future negotiations, which could include specific timelines and actionable steps for both nations. As the world watches closely, the outcomes of these discussions could significantly influence global trade dynamics, affecting not just the U.S. and China, but also their trading partners around the world.
This preliminary consensus marks a crucial step in what has been a tumultuous relationship characterized by tariffs and retaliatory measures. Both nations have much at stake, with their economies intricately linked through trade and investment. For instance, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on a range of Chinese goods, which have impacted American consumers and businesses, while China has responded with its own tariffs. The hope is that by establishing a framework for cooperation, both countries can alleviate these tensions and foster a more collaborative economic environment. As negotiations progress, stakeholders from various sectors are eagerly anticipating the potential for reduced tariffs and increased trade flows, which could stimulate economic growth on both sides.
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China’s top trade negotiator, Li Chenggang, told reporters the two had reached a “preliminary consensus,” while Trump’s treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, said there was “a very successful framework.”
(Image credit: Vincent Thian/)
Eric
Eric is a seasoned journalist covering US Politics news.