Story perspectives

US-China Trade Talks Kick Off Ahead of Trump’s Beijing Visit

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States and China began new trade talks in Paris on March 15, 2026, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.
These discussions prepare for President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing from March 31 to April 2, the first since 2017.
Key topics include tariffs, rare-earth mineral supplies, and agricultural purchases.
Despite a previous truce, tensions persist due to US investigations into trade practices and geopolitical issues, including the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

History

Historical Context

The U.S.-China trade tensions escalated in 2018 when the U.S. imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods, aiming to combat unfair trade practices. This conflict has persisted, with ongoing negotiations in Paris addressing tariffs and rare-earth minerals. The implications of these discussions could significantly alter global trade dynamics and impact future U.S.-China relations amid broader geopolitical tensions.

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Story summary

The United States and China began new trade talks in Paris on March 15, 2026, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.
These discussions prepare for President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing from March 31 to April 2, the first since 2017.
Key topics include tariffs, rare-earth mineral supplies, and agricultural purchases.
Despite a previous truce, tensions persist due to US investigations into trade practices and geopolitical issues, including the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

1 / 2