With Trump’s China trip in limbo, further trade talks loom: analysts

Analysts predict further trade talks between the US and China are likely before President Trump's postponed trip to Beijing. Recent negotiations in Paris yielded no breakthroughs, leaving "unfinished business" between the two countries. Experts suggest that China's reluctance to align with the US on issues like the Iran conflict, specifically regarding naval escorts in the Strait of Hormuz, may have complicated the trade discussions. While the US Treasury Secretary denies any connection between the summit postponement and China's stance on Iran, analysts believe both sides are recalibrating their positions, slowing the momentum of negotiations. Another round of talks is anticipated to avoid tension overshadowing the crucial presidential visit.

US President Donald Trump is seeking to delay a planned March meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in China by about a month. Trump stated the delay is due to the ongoing Iran war, requiring his presence in the US to oversee the conflict. China confirmed discussions are underway regarding the timing of the visit, rejecting any connection to issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump initially suggested China's help in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz was a factor, he later attributed the delay solely to the war. The delay comes amid growing tensions between the US and China, fueled by the Iran war and ongoing trade negotiations.

China and the US concluded their sixth round of trade talks in Paris on Monday, focusing on tariffs, non-tariff measures, and bilateral investment. Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang described the consultations as "deep, frank, and constructive." Both sides agreed to maintain tariff stability and discussed establishing a mechanism to promote bilateral investment, achieving some preliminary consensus. China expressed concerns regarding restrictive measures introduced by the US and opposition to the Section 301 investigations. The two sides agreed to continue their dialogue.