American business and policy circles seek trade certainty, AI dialogue and signs rivalry can be managed despite wider tensions
5-MIN READ5-MIN ListenTeresa Elena Frontadoin WashingtonandLucy Quagginin New YorkPublished: 4:23am, 12 May 2026Updated: 4:27am, 12 May 2026US President Donald Trump’s coming visit to China is being closely watched by business leaders, policymakers and Chinese-American groups hoping for signs that Washington and Beijing can stabilise one of the world’s most consequential relationships, even as expectations for major breakthroughs remain limited.The trip comes against the backdrop of mounting geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing war involving Iran and disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, as well as continued friction over trade, technology and national security.
Still, many in the United States see the visit as an acknowledgement by both governments that allowing ties to deteriorate further would carry significant economic and strategic costs.
“It’s the view of both Chinese-Americans, Asian-Americans and all Americans, quite frankly, that we need to improve the relationship between the United States and China,” Gary Locke, former US ambassador to China and chairman of the board of the Committee of 100, told the South China Morning Post.
“The world is looking for leadership from both the United States and China joining together to solve some of the most pressing issues facing the world,” Locke said, citing climate change, artificial intelligence, cyberattacks and nuclear proliferation.
China confirms dates for Trump’s state visit to Beijing
China confirms dates for Trump’s state visit to BeijingUS consumers and exporters watch summit for economic reliefFor many Americans, however, the impact of the relationship is felt less through diplomacy than through household budgets and jobs.
