China–U.S. trade talks to stay virtual ahead of possible Xi–Trump summit

China–U.S. trade talks to stay virtual ahead of possible Xi–Trump summit
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at Gimhae International Airport, in Busan, South Korea, 30 October, 2025.
Reuters

Trade discussions between China and the U.S. are expected to remain virtual for now, with no major investment initiatives planned before a potential meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump, according to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Speaking on the state of bilateral engagement, Greer indicated that both sides are maintaining communication through online channels as they prepare the groundwork for a possible high-level summit. This cautious approach suggests that while dialogue remains open, neither side is rushing into new economic commitments amid ongoing strategic and trade tensions.

Analysts say the decision to keep talks virtual reflects a wait-and-see attitude in both Washington and Beijing, as they seek to stabilise relations before making any significant policy moves. A potential summit between Xi and Trump is widely seen as a key moment that could shape the direction of future economic cooperation or competition between the world’s two largest economies.

At the same time, China is actively strengthening its economic ties elsewhere. In a separate development, Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for expanding trade and cooperation with Australia, emphasising the importance of “win-win” outcomes.

Li highlighted the complementary nature of the two economies, noting that deeper collaboration in areas such as resources, agriculture and clean energy could bring mutual benefits. He also stressed the need to maintain stable and open trade channels, particularly at a time of global economic uncertainty.

China and Australia have seen improvements in their relationship in recent years after a period of tension, with trade flows gradually recovering. Beijing’s push to expand cooperation with Canberra is being viewed as part of a broader framework to diversify economic partnerships while managing more complex ties with the U.S.

Experts say this dual approach - maintaining dialogue with the U.S. while strengthening ties with other key partners - shows China’s effort to balance geopolitical risks with economic stability. As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, Beijing appears focused on securing reliable partnerships and promoting steady growth.

With virtual talks ongoing and diplomatic channels active, attention is now turning to whether a future Xi-Trump meeting could unlock new momentum in China-U.S. relations. Until then, China’s outreach to countries such as Australia indicates its intent to keep trade moving forward, even as global uncertainties persist.

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