U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused China of trying to weaken the global economy by restricting exports of key resources, which could harm both China and the global market, amid rising tensions and upcoming US-China talks.
President Trump announced there will be no extension to the August tariff deadline, escalating trade tensions and signaling a firm stance in ongoing trade disputes.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Trump discussed efforts to maintain the fragile trade truce amid escalating tensions, with Xi using a maritime analogy to emphasize the importance of staying on course and avoiding external interference in their relationship.
President Donald Trump described Chinese leader Xi Jinping as 'very tough' to negotiate with, amid escalating economic and geopolitical tensions between the US and China, including tariffs, export restrictions, and military concerns, raising questions about the stability of their fragile truce.
Chinese exporters at the Canton Fair in Guangzhou express despair over plummeting profit margins and bleak business prospects, with some comparing the prices of their goods to "cabbage." Economic and political tensions between Beijing and Washington, global trade slowdown due to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and excess manufacturing capacity are contributing to the challenges. While some higher-tech manufacturers remain optimistic, others are concerned about potential further trade tensions with the United States and Europe.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with US business representatives in Beijing, following the China Development Forum attended by Apple CEO Tim Cook. China is seeking to stimulate its economy, which faces challenges such as a property crisis and declining exports. Tensions between the US and China have led to restrictions on China's access to advanced technology and disagreements over Taiwan and the South China Sea. US companies in China have criticized the business environment, and the US House of Representatives recently passed a bill that could lead to a ban on TikTok's Chinese parent company.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to visit China, marking the first trip by an Australian leader in seven years. The visit is seen as a step forward in stabilizing the strained relationship between the two countries, which has been marred by trade restrictions and escalating tensions. The meetings between Albanese and Chinese leaders could lay the groundwork for expanded communication, but analysts believe it won't be enough to fully repair the fragile relationship. The visit carries symbolic significance, marking 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between Australia and China. Both sides have much to gain from easing economic tensions, and the outcome of the visit could have implications for the Indo-Pacific region.