🇺🇸🇨🇳 Trump Announces Second Round of U.S.–China Trade Talks Set for London Next Week

A New Chapter in the Trade Saga

Former President Donald Trump has announced that the second round of U.S.–China trade negotiations will be held in London on Monday, June 9, 2025. This follows a surprising but constructive 90-minute phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling renewed willingness to stabilize one of the world’s most strained economic relationships.

In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump described the upcoming talks as “potentially very productive,” naming Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer as lead negotiators.

A Fragile Truce on the Line

This next phase of talks follows the Geneva Agreement in May 2025, where both countries agreed to temporarily suspend new tariffs:

U.S. tariffs capped at 30%

Chinese tariffs capped at 10%

90-day window for resolution

Markets reacted positively to the truce, but the ceasefire may be short-lived. Since the agreement, the U.S. has accused China of slowing down export approvals for rare earth minerals—materials critical to technology, defense, and electric vehicle industries.

What the U.S. Wants

The London agenda will likely focus on several key issues that have simmered since the Geneva deal:

Immediate resumption of rare earth exports

Discussion on extending the tariff ceasefire

Clarification on tech transfer and export controls

Resolution of diplomatic friction over student visas and consular access

Trump and his team have expressed frustration with what they see as stalling tactics from Beijing. The White House insists China must deliver on Geneva commitments or face renewed economic pressure.

China's Likely Strategy

China has not officially named its negotiation team, but insiders point to Vice Premier He Lifeng—a seasoned economist and lead figure in past talks.

Chinese officials have indicated they want:

• Removal of what they call “hostile measures” by the U.S.
• Reaffirmation of their autonomy in resource policy
• Greater access to U.S. tech and academic institutions

They also emphasized the need for “mutual respect” and warned against “coercive language,” in a subtle rebuke to Trump’s trade rhetoric.

Why London Matters

This meeting could be a turning point in what has become a years-long trade war with consequences far beyond the two nations involved.

A successful summit may:

✅ Stabilize supply chains

✅ Prevent new rounds of tariffs

✅ Support global markets

✅ Improve diplomatic tone ahead of elections

But if talks fail, it could re-ignite tensions and derail the fragile economic peace. With the tariff freeze set to expire in early August, time is running out.

What Comes Next?

Trump hinted at possible reciprocal visits between himself and Xi—suggesting that, at least politically, both sides want to avoid another flare-up. However, promises must now become policy.

Watch for these developments next week:

🔍 Any joint statements or agreements

📉 Market reactions following the summit

📦 Changes in rare earth shipments or U.S. tech licensing

🗣️ Further comments from Trump or Chinese state media

Final Thoughts

The London trade talks are more than just a political spectacle. They represent a pivotal moment for two global giants at economic and strategic odds. If Trump’s team can secure meaningful concessions—or if China offers flexibility—both economies stand to benefit.

But the stakes are high. And in this diplomatic chess match, every move counts.