China mulls US manufacturing fund ahead of Xi-Trump summit, business leader says
South China Morning Post
by Orange WangFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China and the US are anticipated to achieve several positive outcomes but not a sweeping "grand bargain" during their upcoming presidential summit in April, according to James Zimmerman, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China. As preparations for the Xi-Trump meeting in Beijing progress, business leaders suggest that the primary focus may be on announcing symbolic deals to enhance the optics of the summit. Potential agreements could include high-profile transactions like aircraft sales or soybean exports, which would align with U.S. President Donald Trump's penchant for showcasing wins during international negotiations.
The summit comes at a critical juncture in U.S.-China relations, marked by ongoing trade tensions and diplomatic complexities. While both sides have expressed interest in fostering economic cooperation, expectations are tempered due to the sensitive political climate. Zimmerman noted that while significant progress is possible, a comprehensive agreement covering all major issues seems unlikely. Instead, smaller, more manageable deals may be prioritized to demonstrate progress without risking political backlash.
This approach reflects Trump's strategic focus on delivering tangible results that resonate with his base, particularly ahead of key domestic priorities like the 2024 election cycle. By emphasizing visible successes, such as business deals or joint initiatives, both leaders aim to project a sense of achievement and collaboration. However, experts caution that these optics-driven outcomes may not address deeper structural issues in U.S.-China relations.
For readers interested in global trade dynamics, this summit holds significance as a potential turning point in managing the world's largest bilateral economic relationship. The outcomes could influence global markets, technological collaboration, and diplomatic stability between two superpowers. As negotiations unfold, the focus will be on whether both nations can strike a balance between short-term gains and long-term strategic interests.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/13/2026