Xi Jinping to Meet Donald Trump in Washington for Trade Talks on September 24

Chinese President Xi Jinping will arrive in Washington on September 24, 2026, marking the first state visit by a Chinese leader in over a decade. The visit, which includes a state dinner hosted by President Donald Trump, is primarily centered around energy trade and tariff negotiations.

The backdrop for these discussions is a significant tariff imposed by Beijing in February 2025, which levied a 15% tariff on U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) in retaliation for U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports. This move resulted in a complete halt of U.S. LNG shipments to China, which had previously reached a value of $6.2 billion in 2021.

As the talks approach, the key issue remains whether China will consider reducing or eliminating the existing tariff. Although no official announcements have been made, reports suggest a tentative framework for negotiations that includes a reciprocal tariff reduction package worth around $30 billion.

In the first half of 2026, U.S. LNG exports averaged 17.4 billion cubic feet per day, a 23% increase from the previous year, with expectations for further growth. Recently, China Gas Holdings signed a long-term supply agreement for U.S. LNG, indicating a potential shift in energy sourcing.

The upcoming meeting is also critical as it coincides with the expiration of the Busan truce in November 2026, which has temporarily paused tariff escalations. Both leaders will discuss extending this truce and addressing agricultural purchases, which are vital for maintaining trade stability.