#USChinaTradeTalks Here’s the latest on #USChinaTradeTalks:
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📍 What's happening
High‑level talks in London (June 9): U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in London today to revive the ceasefire from May’s Geneva agreement and address expanding tensions—spanning tariffs, export controls, and rare‑earth minerals .
Focus areas: Rare-earth minerals (crucial for high-tech and defense) and advanced technology were flagged as priorities following a leaders' call between Trump and Xi last week .
Market response: Asian stock indices rallied modestly ahead of today’s session—cautious optimism is in the air, despite no expectation of major breakthroughs .
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🔍 Context & background
In Geneva (May 12), both nations entered a 90-day truce: U.S. tariffs dropped from ~145% to ~30%, and China's from ~125% to ~10% .
Since then, tensions persist over controls on critical minerals—China had curbed rare-earth exports earlier this year, heightening fears of a supply shock .
U.S. strategy includes tech export limits and tariffs tied to fentanyl precursor regulation .
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🤔 What analysts expect
Limited progress likely: Analysts warn London may yield targeted agreements—temporary easing and mineral trade—but no sweeping restructuring of trade policy or tariffs .
Market sensitivity: Prices for oil and metals remain sensitive to developments, but broader market changes may hinge on U.S. inflation data (due Wednesday) and investor appetite .
Extended process: Today’s round is viewed as groundwork—true progress may emerge in further sessions, especially as the 90-day truce approaches expiration in August .
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⏳ What to watch next
Event Why it matters
Outcome of London talks (today) Check for any interim actions—tariff suspensions, mineral export commitments.
U.S. inflation data (Wednesday) Could influence Fed decisions and market mood.
80–90 day truce deadline (mid-August) Pressure