Trump’s Business Agenda and US-China Relations

President Donald Trump’s business-focused approach might influence a softer US stance towards China. Despite this, there are strong China critics within his administration. During Trump’s recent visit to Beijing, he received a grand reception, a culmination of efforts that started when the US and China reduced tariffs in May of the previous year.

Earlier, Trump’s administration had disputes with China over the trade deficit and the COVID-19 pandemic origins. Relations were strained to the point that few expected a reconciliation. However, in Beijing, Trump emphasized his friendship and respect for China’s President, Xi Jinping. These comments strengthened mutual trust between the leaders.

Present during the meeting were notable critics like Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State with sanctions against him, defense chief Pete Hegseth, and White House adviser Stephen Miller. They supported Trump as he sought cooperation from Xi in return for more business opportunities in China.

Politics often involves both strategy and symbolism. The presence of politicians and business leaders was a show of strength, highlighting the potential chaos if China didn’t engage positively with the US, a senior adviser indicated.

The visit’s aim was to remind China that the US remains a global leader and is not easily replaced, stated Miles Yu, a former China policy adviser under Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Trump facilitated this seeming détente with concessions addressing Chinese concerns about Taiwan and AI technology access. Although criticized by supporters, these moves prompted China to agree to key meetings and commitments, such as agricultural purchases. Xi agreed to a US state visit in September, his first since 2015.

Despite apparent diplomatic advances, tensions remain. According to Yu, US-China relations are akin to a ‘new Cold War.’
Maintaining peace and strength is key, Yu remarked, supporting Trump’s policy of deterrence through strength.

Internal US pressures are high. Recent criminal charges against California’s former mayor Eileen Wang highlighted longstanding efforts to counter Chinese influence. In New York, Harry Lu was convicted of running an unofficial Chinese police station. These incidents illustrate the depth of tensions despite amicable diplomatic gestures.

Despite the appearance of improved relations from Trump’s visit, substantial changes are unlikely, suggests Yu. He believes Trump’s invitation to Xi is strategic, urging good behavior until the September visit.

John Yasuda, a Johns Hopkins University associate professor, sees Trump’s softer approach differently. Yasuda suggested that Xi appeared dominant in their meeting, indicating Beijing’s willingness to engage on a transactional level if tensions ease. Whether the US comprehends this dynamic remains uncertain.