Following the meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in Beijing, the White House announced that China will purchase at least $17 billion worth of American agricultural products annually between 2026 and 2028.
The agreement covers a wide range of agricultural goods, including soybeans, beef, poultry products, and other agricultural commodities. This step is particularly important for American farmers, as US agricultural exports to China have sharply declined in recent years amid US-China trade tensions.
According to Reuters, US agricultural exports to China fell by 65.7% year-on-year in 2025, reaching only $8.4 billion. During the same period, China also significantly reduced its dependence on American soybeans, from 41% in 2016 to about 20% in 2024.
Agriculture was one of the key topics of the negotiations. According to Reuters, Washington sought stronger purchasing guarantees from Beijing, particularly regarding soybeans. The two sides are also planning to establish US-China trade and investment councils that will work on tariff reductions and market access issues.
The Financial Times reports that the new mechanisms are expected to cover so-called “non-sensitive” goods and investments. The plan also includes opening the Chinese market to American beef and the aviation sector.
The Trump administration describes the agreement as a step toward “stabilizing economic relations”. Despite optimistic statements, Beijing says the agreements have not yet been finalized. China’s Ministry of Commerce stated on May 16 that agreements related to tariffs, agriculture, and aviation are still “preliminary” and require further negotiations.
Despite ongoing crises surrounding Taiwan and the tech sector, the Beijing summit showed a willingness for mutual economic compromise. Washington and Beijing are attempting to rebuild ties in areas where interdependence is vital.
