China-US trade relations may reach a ‘tactical truce’, slowing down economic decoupling

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by He HuifengMarch 9, 2026 at 09:00 PM

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short article 2 min

A recent survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in South China (AmCham South China) indicates growing confidence among companies in the region regarding US-China relations. Conducted in late 2025 with over 400 firms, the survey found that 39% of respondents have a positive outlook, a 14% increase from 2024. The report suggests a "tactical truce" in trade relations through 2026, slowing economic decoupling and focusing on non-sensitive sectors. This finding precedes a potential visit by US President Donald Trump to China in late March, the first such visit in nine years. While most firms anticipate intensified trade tensions in 2026, they believe the impact on their operations will be less severe than previously expected.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Europe 30% Macau 30% Hong Kong 30% Harley Seyedin 50% Donald Trump 60% American Chamber of Commerce in South China ×480% China ×790% United States ×590%

Keywords

us-china trade relations 100% economic decoupling 80% tactical truce 70% amcham south china 70% business confidence 60% trade tensions 50% geopolitical friction 50% reinvesting 40% emerging markets 40%