China-U.S. trade: Toward mutual benefit, not confrontation

Editor's note: Xu Ying, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a Beijing-based international affairs commentator. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

In an era where global economic stability is increasingly fragile and political polarization clouds international cooperation, China continues to advocate for rational, equal and mutually beneficial dialogue in managing the complex dynamics of China-U.S. trade relations.

The recent meeting in London between China and the U.S. represents a pivotal moment, not only for the world's two largest economies but for the broader international economic order. It is a moment that calls for strategic responsibility, not strategic rivalry.

At the heart of China's message is a clear principle: Disputes should be resolved not through coercion or unilateralism, but through sincere engagement and cooperative mechanisms. The London meeting, guided by the consensus reached between the two heads of state during their June 5 phone call, marks a reaffirmation of the importance of dialogue – anchored in equality and mutual respect – as the only viable path forward.

While notable progress was made in consolidating previous agreements and addressing outstanding concerns, the Chinese side emphasized that implementation, not rhetoric, must define the next phase of bilateral engagement.

China's position remains consistent and principled. As Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng reiterated, the essence of China-U.S. economic and trade relations lies in mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. Cooperation, not confrontation, is the logic of interdependence in a globalized economy.

Trade wars have no winners, and economic decoupling threatens not just bilateral ties but global supply chains, consumer welfare and investor confidence. For the international economy to avoid fragmentation, China and the United States must act not as adversaries, but as co-stewards of a shared global community.

Beijing's approach has always been marked by a willingness to communicate and a commitment to international norms. Yet it also maintains red lines. While China is sincere in pursuing economic and trade consultations, it is equally firm in defending its core interests.

Trade should not be used as a political instrument. Unilateral tariffs, extraterritorial sanctions and discriminatory export controls undermine not only China's legitimate development rights but also the very credibility of the rules-based international system that the United States once helped to build.

The reality is that we are living in a multipolar world that demands coexistence, not containment. It is neither realistic nor productive to attempt to block China's progress through technological blockades or market exclusions.

China does not seek conflict, but it is neither fearful of, nor unprepared for one. The goal, however, is not confrontation. China's enduring strategy is to stabilize the relationship, expand cooperation where possible and build frameworks that prevent escalation. The London meeting reflects this mature and pragmatic orientation.

Moving forward, the China-U.S. economic and trade consultation mechanism must be used effectively to narrow differences and expand common ground. Dialogue must be institutionalized, forward-looking and anchored in mutual accountability. There should be no illusions about the complexity of the issues at hand. The two economies are different in structure and ideology, but they are also deeply intertwined. Recognizing this interdependence should compel both sides to act with greater foresight and restraint.

Moreover, the broader international community has a stake in how China and the United States manage their economic relations. As the world grapples with sluggish growth, climate challenges and rising development disparities, a stable China-U.S. relationship is not just desirable – it is essential. Uncertainty in this core relationship sends negative signals across markets, increases volatility in global trade and risks dividing countries into rival camps.

In this context, China's consistent support for multilateralism offers a constructive alternative. Rather than undermine institutions like the World Trade Organization, China calls for their reform and revitalization. Rather than turning inward, China is expanding regional and global partnerships through mechanisms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. These efforts are not aimed at exclusion, but at inclusion – providing more nations with access to development opportunities, infrastructure finance and sustainable growth.

It is time for the United States to match words with deeds. If Washington truly seeks a stable and predictable economic relationship with Beijing, then it must refrain from politicizing trade, must stop treating China's development as a threat, and must honor the consensus reached at the highest levels. Strategic trust cannot be built on shifting positions and policy volatility. It requires predictability, professionalism and the political courage to engage on equal terms.

There are many areas where China and the United States can lead through cooperation: managing climate change, coordinating responses to global health threats, developing standards for emerging technologies and strengthening financial stability. But such cooperation must be based on mutual benefit and shared responsibility, not strategic conditionality or hegemonic ambition.

From Geneva to London, and beyond, the task is clear. Both sides must resist short-term pressures and reframe the relationship around long-term stability. China will continue to uphold openness, promote fairness and act with determination to safeguard its national interests while contributing to global peace and prosperity. The door to dialogue remains open, but it must be matched by sincerity and action.

In an interconnected world, trade is not merely an economic exchange – it is a symbol of trust, of dialogue and of cooperation. Let that symbol not be turned into a weapon of division. Let it instead be reaffirmed as a pillar of peace. With seriousness of purpose and mutual respect, the future of China-U.S. trade relations can still be one of shared progress. The choice remains with Washington. China is ready.

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