US to cut size of diplomatic mission in China by up to 10%, SCMP reports

Washington/Beijing, February 19, 2025 – The United States is reportedly preparing to reduce the size of its diplomatic mission in China by as much as 10%, according to the South China Morning Post.

The move, which could affect American diplomats stationed in mainland China and Hong Kong—as well as local employees—is said to be unprecedented, with affected staff expected to receive notice as early as Friday.

The proposed downsizing would impact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing along with consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan, as well as the consulate in Hong Kong. While it remains unclear whether those laid off might be reassigned to other diplomatic posts, the reports indicate that layoffs are a likely outcome.

Two sources familiar with the situation told Reuters that the leadership of the mission in China had sent a message to embassy staff refuting the SCMP report. Embassy spokespeople did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and the U.S. State Department also declined to comment on the matter.

This potential cut is part of a broader effort under President Donald Trump’s administration to overhaul the U.S. diplomatic corps. Last week, similar staff reductions were reportedly requested at U.S. embassies worldwide as the administration seeks to trim spending deemed wasteful by Trump and his ally, billionaire Elon Musk.

The U.S. diplomatic mission in China is one of the largest in the world, with more than 1,300 American and locally hired staff representing nearly 50 federal agencies operating out of a 10-acre complex in Beijing. Any significant reduction in this workforce could have far-reaching implications for U.S.-China relations and the ability of the embassy to manage its extensive portfolio in the region.

The decision, if implemented, underscores the Trump administration's continuing efforts to streamline U.S. government operations amid ongoing budgetary and strategic challenges.

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