China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng to Visit the UK for Trade Discussions
China announced that Vice Premier He Lifeng is scheduled to visit the United Kingdom from June 8 to June 13, 2025, marking a significant step in ongoing trade dialogue between the two nations. This trip is particularly notable as it coincides with the launch of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism, highlighting a moment of intensified diplomatic engagement.
Context of the Visit Amid Global Trade Tensions
He Lifeng, who led China's delegation in the initial trade negotiations in May, is set to further discussions aimed at easing tensions. Meanwhile, the United States has confirmed that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will lead the American side in the upcoming talks.
Trade frictions between the US and China have lingered, affecting both economies deeply. Despite a brief period of tariff rollbacks following breakthrough talks in Geneva last month, discord has resurfaced, particularly around issues such as semiconductor sourcing and visa policies.
Challenges in US-China Trade Relations
- Last year, bilateral trade between the US and China surpassed $582 billion, underlining the economic stakes.
- China has criticized the US for actions that undermine progress, including warnings from the US Commerce Department to the chip industry and visa cancellations affecting Chinese students.
- The US has expressed frustration over delays in China fulfilling commitments made in Geneva, especially increasing exports of rare earth minerals vital for American manufacturing.
As Vice Premier He Lifeng embarks on the visit to the UK, stakeholders worldwide will be watching closely to see how these talks influence the broader economic landscape and potentially ease existing trade tensions.
