China-US Reach New Trade Agreement

China has officially confirmed the conclusion of a new trade agreement with the United States, marking a fresh attempt to stabilize trade ties between the world’s two largest economies.

According to a statement released Friday by China’s Ministry of Commerce, the agreement includes the removal of certain “restrictive measures” by the United States, while China will begin reviewing export-controlled items in accordance with its legal framework.

The announcement follows weeks of diplomatic efforts, including key meetings in Geneva and London, aimed at reviving the stalled momentum of the Geneva consensus reached earlier this year. A White House official told AFP that both sides have now reached “an additional understanding for a framework to implement the Geneva agreement.”

President Donald Trump had hinted at progress during a recent event, stating that Washington had “just signed” a deal with China, though he did not provide details at the time.

The newly confirmed agreement addresses several sensitive issues, including the expedited licensing process for Chinese rare earth exports to the United States—materials crucial for electronics, defense, and renewable energy industries. It also includes China’s pledge to ease non-tariff barriers and ensure compliance with prior commitments.

“Following the London talks, the teams from both sides have maintained close communication,” the Chinese commerce ministry said. “Recently, with approval, both sides further confirmed the details of the framework.”

The ministry added that China would review and approve export applications “that meet the requirements in accordance with the law,” while the U.S. side will “correspondingly cancel a series of restrictive measures against China.”

The deal is seen as a modest but important step toward rebuilding trust after years of tariff disputes and escalating trade tensions.