The relationship between the United States and China remains one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world. As US President Donald Trump is visiting Beijing, both countries have an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, stabilize economic ties and promote prosperity for their peoples and the global economy.

Despite years of trade tensions and tariffs, the two economies are deeply interconnected. Research by the Stanford Center on China's Economy and Institutions emphasizes that the two nations benefit enormously from trade, investment, innovation, and educational exchange.

US consumers and businesses benefit from affordable goods and integrated supply chains, while Chinese consumers and businesses benefit from access to US technology, agricultural products, financial services, and higher education.

Millions of jobs in both countries are linked directly or indirectly to this economic relationship.

One major development in recent years has been the significant reduction in the US-China trade deficit.

According to data from the Office of the US Trade Representative and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, the US goods trade deficit with China fell to approximately $202.1 billion in 2025, down from $295.5 billion in 2024. This represents a 31.6 percent reduction in just one year.

The decline was due to changes in supply chains, increased domestic manufacturing in some sectors, diversification of trade partners, and evolving tariff policies. Yet even with these adjustments, bilateral trade remained enormous. Total China-US goods trade still exceeded $414 billion in 2025, demonstrating that the two economies continue to rely on each other in many areas.

Trump's visit provides an opportunity to move beyond confrontation and toward practical cooperation.

Both nations share common interests in global economic stability, energy security, climate resilience, public health, artificial intelligence governance and financial market stability.

Cooperation between Washington and Beijing is not simply beneficial for US and Chinese citizens; it is essential for global growth and international confidence.

There are many areas where positive collaboration can expand. In agriculture, China remains an important market for US farmers exporting soybeans, corn, beef and other products. Increased agricultural purchases can help support rural communities across the US while ensuring food security and stable supplies for Chinese consumers.

In technology, both countries can cooperate on standards for AI safety, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. Joint research partnerships between universities and companies have historically produced breakthroughs in medicine, engineering and clean energy.

Climate and energy cooperation also present major opportunities. The US and China are the world's two largest economies and energy consumers.

By working together on renewable energy, battery storage, carbon reduction technologies, and electric vehicles, both countries can accelerate innovation while creating jobs and investment opportunities. Cooperation in these sectors could help reduce global emissions while improving energy affordability and reliability.

Educational and cultural exchanges are equally important. Hundreds of thousands of Chinese students have studied in US universities over the past two decades, contributing billions of dollars to local economies while building people-to-people ties.

Academic collaboration and tourism help reduce misunderstandings and strengthen mutual respect. Business leaders, students, scientists, and cultural organizations all benefit when relations are stable and constructive.

The global economy also benefits from open communication between the US and China. Financial markets react positively to signs of dialogue and predictability between the two powers.

Businesses on both sides want stable policies, clear regulations, and reduced uncertainty. A cooperative atmosphere encourages investment, strengthens supply chains, and supports economic growth worldwide.

While differences will remain on trade, security, and geopolitical issues, history shows that engagement produces better outcomes than isolation. Strong diplomacy and mutual respect can help manage disagreements while preserving areas of common interest. The US and China are competitors in some areas, but they are also partners in maintaining global prosperity and stability.

Trump's visit could become an important moment to reset the tone of the relationship.

Constructive discussions on trade, investment, market access and economic cooperation could create new momentum for both nations.

The US and Chinese peoples both seek economic opportunity, stable growth, innovation, and peace.

By focusing on practical cooperation and long-term mutual benefit, the two countries can build a more positive and productive relationship that benefits not only themselves, but the entire world.

The author is the president of the American Chamber of Commerce in South China, and the winner of the 2017 Oslo Business for Peace Award, which is awarded by a committee consisting of Nobel laureates in peace and economics.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily. 

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