Top economic officials from the United States and China held what both sides described as “candid” talks on Thursday, raising concerns over each other’s trade policies ahead of a planned meeting between their leaders later this month.
Scott Bessent said he spoke with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng to discuss preparations for a visit by Donald Trump to Beijing on May 14–15, where he is expected to meet Xi Jinping.
“Our meeting was both candid and comprehensive,” Bessent said, adding that China’s recent supply chain regulations could have a “chilling effect” on global trade.
U.S. Raises Concerns Over New Chinese Rules
The comments mark one of the first public responses from the Trump administration to Beijing’s new supply chain rules, which have raised concerns among U.S. businesses.
The regulations allow China to take action against foreign companies that try to move supply chains away from the country, especially in key areas such as critical minerals.
Analysts say the move could make it harder for the United States to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing and resources.
China Criticises U.S. Trade Measures
Chinese state media reported that He Lifeng held “candid, in-depth and constructive exchanges” with Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer during the call.
Beijing expressed “serious concern” over what it described as U.S. “restrictive” trade measures against China.
Despite the differences, both sides agreed to manage disputes and continue cooperation, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.
Summit Preparations Continue
The talks follow earlier in-person meetings in Paris in March, where officials discussed possible Chinese purchases of U.S. agricultural goods and new ways to manage trade relations.
The planned Trump–Xi summit had been delayed due to the Iran conflict but now appears to be moving forward.
China said the latest call aimed to “properly resolve” economic issues and expand practical cooperation, signalling that preparations for the summit are on track.
Broader Tensions Remain
Alongside trade issues, wider geopolitical tensions remain in focus. In a separate call, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Taiwan remains the “biggest point of risk” in relations between the two countries.
The United States and China reached a fragile trade truce last October after months of tariffs and countermeasures, but disagreements continue.
Industry Groups Voice Concerns
As the summit approaches, U.S. industry groups and lawmakers have warned against giving China greater access to key sectors such as the American auto industry.
Several steel groups urged officials to protect domestic manufacturing and avoid policies that could weaken competitiveness or raise national security risks.
Cautious Stability Ahead of Meeting
Despite ongoing tensions, both Washington and Beijing have sought to keep relations stable in the lead-up to the summit.
Chinese state media said both sides expressed willingness to promote “healthy, stable and sustainable” economic ties, even as they continue to compete for influence and leverage.
(with inputs from Reuters)
