Trump, Xi Meet in Beijing for Two-Day Trade and Investment Summit

President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on May 14-15 for a two-day state-level summit, their first at that level since 2017. The agenda focused on trade and investment, including possible purchases of Boeing aircraft and U.S. agricultural products, and proposals for a Board of Trade and a Board of Investment.

U.S. and Chinese delegations prioritized near-term transactions and institutional arrangements over broad policy reforms. U.S. officials described potential purchases as possibly totaling “double-digit billions.”

Chinese authorities plan to announce the two boards to formalize how Washington and Beijing manage commercial ties, officials noted. If created and functioning, the bodies would provide formal channels for negotiation and dispute handling.

Markets watched for signs of improved relations between the two largest economies. Past meetings produced high-profile announcements that later stalled. Technology export restrictions, semiconductor controls and national security reviews remain unresolved and may limit what either side can commit to.

Ahead of the trip, President Trump predicted “a fantastic future together.” Chinese leaders are seeking a more stable relationship and have set a goal of making 2026 a milestone year in bilateral ties.

Market observers noted that the scale of actual transactions and the effectiveness of the proposed boards will determine economic impact. Large purchases could influence the dollar-yuan exchange rate, which affects broader asset markets, including digital assets such as Bitcoin.

Officials cautioned that many details will require follow-up work and that any longer-term changes to the commercial relationship will depend on how the boards operate and whether technology and security disputes are resolved.