Trump’s China Visit Unlikely to Bring Breakthrough, Focused on Maintaining Stability

US, Mar  09 : A planned summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month is unlikely to deliver a major reset in business and investment relations, according to several people involved in preparations.

Instead, officials from both sides appear focused on preserving stability in ties between the world’s two largest economies after a turbulent period marked by tariffs imposed by Washington and Beijing’s restrictions on rare earth exports.

While some American companies hoped the visit might open new economic opportunities, there has been little progress toward forming a large CEO delegation from the United States. Likewise, China has not yet received the investment protections it has sought for its companies operating in the U.S.

Limited agenda expected for high-profile meeting

The summit will mark the first in-person meeting between Trump and Xi since they agreed to a temporary trade truce last October. However, expectations have gradually scaled down as preparations for the visit remain limited.

Ryan Hass described the event as a “shrinking state visit,” suggesting the scope of potential outcomes appears to be narrowing as the date approaches.

U.S. government agencies including the White House, the Treasury Department and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative have not publicly commented on what the meeting may produce. Meanwhile, China has also avoided confirming the trip, though officials acknowledge that preparations are underway.

China’s foreign minister Wang Yi said discussions are ongoing and emphasised the importance of careful preparation to manage differences between the two countries.

Business expectations remain uncertain

One key question surrounding the summit is whether Trump will travel with a prominent group of American corporate leaders. Leaders from countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany recently brought major business delegations during their own visits to China.

David Perdue has reportedly advocated for including U.S. executives in the delegation. However, trade officials have shown reluctance, preferring to keep negotiations focused on what they describe as “managed trade” rather than broader corporate engagement.

The annual China Development Forum, which typically attracts many global CEOs, will take place shortly before the expected summit, raising the possibility that some executives could still participate if arrangements are finalised.

Trade tensions remain a sensitive issue

Tariffs continue to cast a shadow over the upcoming talks. The Supreme Court of the United States recently struck down a fentanyl-related tariff imposed on China, though the Trump administration has indicated it may reinstate the measure under a different legal framework.

Despite these disputes, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the meeting is not intended to escalate trade disagreements.

Instead, Washington wants to ensure Beijing continues purchasing American agricultural goods and aircraft while maintaining access to critical rare-earth materials used in U.S. industries.

Possible aircraft deal under discussion

One potential outcome could involve a major order for aircraft from Boeing. Negotiators have discussed a possible purchase of around 500 narrow-body jets by Chinese buyers.

However, the deal may require concessions from Washington, including long-term guarantees for spare parts supplies. Even if an agreement is reached, deliveries would likely extend into the next decade due to Boeing’s production backlog.

Officials familiar with the talks say the White House could delay announcing such agreements, saving them for future meetings between Trump and Xi later this year.