#USChinaTradeTalks : A Tense Truce & Tech Tussle

The US-China trade talks taking place this week in London are drawing major attention from investors and global markets. After a 90-day tariff pause agreed upon in May — described as a “total reset” — both countries are trying to stabilize relations, but cracks have already reappeared. The negotiations are complex and influenced by strategic competition over technology and trade dominance.

*Key Issues in the Talks:*

- *Technology Restrictions:* The US continues to block China's access to advanced semiconductors and AI chips like Huawei’s Ascend series, citing security concerns. This remains one of the biggest friction points.

- *Rare Earth Exports:* China’s restriction on rare earth metal exports has angered the US, which depends on these minerals for EVs, smartphones, and defense systems.

- *Tariff Disputes:* Both nations accuse each other of not honoring tariff and non-tariff promises from earlier agreements.

- *Market Access & Visas:* China is lobbying for more access to the US market and fewer restrictions on student and tech visas.