Despite summit pledges, don’t expect US-China trade to improve

Despite recent pledges from both presidents at a summit in Beijing to foster a stable and constructive relationship, and the establishment of new joint trade and investment councils, expectations for significant improvement in US-China trade relations are tempered by historical precedent. The article highlights that past high-level commitments, such as those made during President Trump's 2017 visit to China, were followed by escalating trade tensions. Similarly, the pattern since last year's summit in South Korea has involved diplomatic pronouncements alongside continued economic pressure from Washington. This suggests a recurring dynamic where promises of stability are accompanied by tightening economic measures.

Following a summit in Beijing, China has agreed to increase its purchases of U.S. agricultural products, including beef and poultry, to an annualized rate of $17 billion for 2026 through 2028. This agreement, announced by the White House, aims to alleviate the impact of the trade war on American farmers. China will restore market access for U.S. beef and resume poultry imports from bird-flu-free U.S. states. These deals build upon previous commitments for soybean purchases. While Beijing has not immediately confirmed the terms, its Ministry of Commerce indicated progress on resolving non-tariff barriers and market access issues for agricultural goods. The U.S. also committed to addressing Chinese concerns regarding dairy products and seafood.

Following a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the White House announced that China will purchase at least $17 billion worth of US agricultural goods annually through 2028. This commitment includes previously agreed upon soybean purchases and the restoration of market access for US beef and poultry. The two leaders also agreed to establish new bodies to manage trade and investment. The White House released these details on Sunday, after the two-day summit in Beijing concluded on Friday. China has not yet confirmed or commented on the announcement.

The White House announced that China has committed to purchasing at least $17 billion in U.S. agricultural products annually through 2028. This agreement stems from the recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The commitment is separate from previous soybean purchase agreements made in October 2025. President Trump concluded his state visit to China on Friday, where he engaged in discussions with President Xi on various topics including trade.