U.S. and China Reach Trade Framework Agreement in London

Photo posted by Chinese Embassy in US

The United States and China have reached a preliminary trade framework after two days of high-level negotiations in London, signaling progress in efforts to ease trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

The agreement is designed to advance the Geneva trade consensus reached in May, which paused new tariffs for 90 days. The current framework aims to address longstanding trade imbalances and set the stage for broader economic cooperation.

Key U.S. negotiators included Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. China was represented by Vice Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang. Both sides described the discussions as “professional and in-depth,” reflecting commitments made during a recent phone call between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.

The framework outlines plans to improve trade in essential sectors, including critical minerals vital to technology, defense, and energy industries. China reaffirmed that its export controls on rare earths align with international norms and expressed openness to further dialogue.

Although a consensus has been reached at the negotiator level, the framework still needs formal approval from both President Trump and President Xi before implementation can begin. Experts have welcomed the progress but stress that the outcome will depend on enforcement details and continued communication.

If finalized, the deal could mark a pivotal step toward stabilizing U.S.-China trade relations and mitigating further economic disruption.