TRUMP-XI SUMMIT SEEKS TRADE RESET AS TARIFFS, US FARM EXPORTS AND COAL DOMINATE TALKS

September 28, 2026

The three-day summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington has opened the way for renewed trade negotiations, with tariff reductions, agricultural imports and coal purchases emerging as key areas of discussion between the world’s two largest economies.

Following the talks, the two countries outlined an eight-point consensus that includes discussions on reciprocal tariff reductions covering approximately $30 billion in goods, the establishment of a trade council and the launch of dialogue on artificial intelligence. The agreements are intended to support trade cooperation and provide additional time to address continuing economic differences.

Agricultural trade was a significant issue during the summit, with Washington seeking increased Chinese purchases of American products, including soybeans, grains and meat. US farmers have been pressing for greater access to the Chinese market and relief from retaliatory tariffs. The two sides also discussed extending existing purchase commitments, although reports indicated that no major new agricultural procurement agreement had been publicly confirmed.

Coal also featured in the trade discussions. According to the White House, China agreed to import at least 10 million metric tonnes of US coal in both 2027 and 2028. The proposed tariff-relief arrangement covers a range of goods, including agricultural products, seafood, timber, cosmetics and medical devices, alongside selected Chinese consumer products.

Despite the trade-related understandings, significant differences remain between Washington and Beijing over issues including Taiwan, advanced technology, artificial intelligence and critical minerals. The summit concluded with both leaders signalling an interest in stabilising bilateral relations, while leaving several contentious matters for further negotiations.