US-China Relations

US and China Hold First Direct Trade Talks Since Trump-Xi Meeting

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US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer say they urged China's Vice Premier He Lifeng to honor commitments on rare earths and agricultural goods. Bessent said Washington wants a more balanced and fair economic relationship, while Chinese state media said Beijing raised concerns over US trade restrictions but that both sides agreed to expand cooperation. It's the first direct talks between the officials since presidents Trump and Xi met in Beijing in May, with another meeting expected in Washington in September.

US-China Trade Officials Talk

 

REPORTER:  

Top US and Chinese trade officials held a first video call discussion ahead of a summit before their presidents hold a second summit this year in September.

 

The US pressed China to meet its commitments on buying US agricultural products and easing problematic export restrictions on rare earth minerals. China expressed its own concerns over recent, unspecified US trade restrictions. It marks the first discussion between Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng since Trump visited Xi in May. Despite expanding trade barriers in recent months, both sides agreed to keep talks going.