The meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping lasted less than two hours - significantly shorter than expected. The two leaders nevertheless said they were very satisfied with it. Trump said that from his point of view, the problems with China were "resolved". The trade war between the two countries has a huge effect on the global economy. According to the US president, he and Xi agreed on key topics.
China and rare earth metals
At first, the US and China agreed on the supply of rare earth metals, Trump explained. This agreement will be in force for one year, and then it can be extended, writes ARD. Beijing confirmed that it would relax export restrictions on these elements, announced in early October.
Back in April, China imposed stricter controls on the export of 7 out of a total of 17 rare earth metals it exports. This was one of China's most important steps in the trade conflict with the United States. These materials are needed for industry, as well as for high technology and defense.
Stricter controls on fentanyl, lower tariffs
The American president also said that he had agreed with Xi Jinping that China would tighten control over the illegal trade in fentanyl. The United States has repeatedly accused China of being to blame for the drug crisis in America. In February, the American government imposed an additional 20% tariff on Chinese goods, with the administration's motivation being China's involvement in the fentanyl trade. These tariffs will now be reduced to 10%, which will reduce the total tax on Chinese goods from 57 to 47%.
Since the beginning of his term in office until April, Trump has increased tariffs on Chinese goods to 145%, which prompted Beijing to retaliate with tariffs of 125%. Trade between the two countries has practically collapsed because it was no longer profitable. Initial negotiations on the tariff dispute led to a moratorium that has since been extended several times. Trump recently threatened to restore the 100% tariffs in November. That threat appears to have been postponed after talks with Xi.
More work
An important issue for Trump was also touched upon - imports of agricultural products from the United States to China. According to the US president, Beijing will buy American products, such as soybeans. China also plans to buy oil and gas from the United States, Trump also said. According to Xi Jinping, however, the work is far from finished and many of the points and agreements discussed at the meeting need to be further specified.
In this sense, Trump confirmed that he plans to visit China next year and there is already talk of specifics - in April 2026, Xi will also visit the United States, after receiving an official invitation from the White House.