US President Donald Trump has announced a major step toward easing trade tensions with China, following what he described as “very productive” discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Trump revealed that the United States would lower tariffs on Chinese goods, adding that both nations were edging closer to a comprehensive trade agreement. “We can sign a trade deal with China pretty soon,” he said, calling the meeting a “breakthrough moment” after months of renewed economic friction between the world’s two largest economies.
The talks, held on the sidelines of Trump’s regional visit, were aimed at mending relations strained by disputes over tariffs, technology restrictions, and control of key resources.
Trump further disclosed that China had agreed to ease restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals—critical components for electronics, electric vehicles, and defense technologies—declaring an end to what he termed the “rare earths roadblock.” He said the move would grant the US better access to these strategic materials, boosting American industries and reducing reliance on Chinese suppliers.
China’s statement on the meeting struck a more cautious tone, noting that both sides had reached “a consensus to resolve major trade issues” and describing the talks as “constructive and forward-looking.”
While progress was evident, neither side made any announcement on the unresolved negotiations concerning the sale of Chinese-owned social media app TikTok’s US operations.
Analysts observed that President Xi approached the talks from a position of relative strength, given China’s solid post-pandemic recovery and growing global economic influence. Nevertheless, both leaders appeared keen to project a message of stability and cooperation amid an often turbulent bilateral relationship.
