China and the United States are making strides toward mending their trade relationship, following recent talks in London that experts say signal a return to more constructive engagement.
The meeting in London, which continued discussions from a recent leaders’ phone call and the Geneva talks, focused on ironing out implementation details of agreements made between the two nations. According to Sun Taiyi, an associate professor of political science at Christopher Newport University in the United States, the talks represent a shift toward resolving outstanding issues and stabilizing bilateral relations.
“There’s a sense of urgency on both sides,” Sun said. “Rising inflationary pressures from prolonged trade tensions and critical manufacturing needs have heightened the stakes.”
One of the key shifts in focus during the London talks was from tariffs to export controls. China is seeking easing of U.S. restrictions on high-tech exports, while the U.S. is aiming for greater access to Chinese rare earth materials crucial for industries like automobiles, aerospace, and electronics.
“The focus has shifted from tariffs to export controls,” Sun explained. “Although some measures could be rolled back, fully lifting existing restrictions may prove more difficult.”
The inclusion of U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in the negotiations underscores the emphasis on export controls. While Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent typically leads such discussions, Lutnick’s expertise was pivotal given the new focus.
The procedural framework established in London marks a positive development, moving away from reliance on direct leader-to-leader negotiations and toward a more structured process involving working-level teams. This approach not only builds on the foundation of the Geneva talks but also helps resolve prior ambiguities.
“Both sides have demonstrated their strategic capabilities,” Sun noted. “There’s a mutual recognition that cooperation serves their interests better than prolonged confrontation.”
As both nations navigate the complexities of re-engaging, the hope is that these steps will steer their relationship back on track, fostering a more stable and mutually beneficial partnership.
