US President Trump to travel to China from March 31 to April 2 - White House official

US President Trump to travel to China from March 31 to April 2 - White House official

U.S. President Trump to Travel to China Amid Trade Agreement Implementation

U.S. President Donald J. Trump is set to travel to China from March 31 to April 2, 2026, according to a White House official, as part of ongoing efforts to solidify bilateral trade reforms and address economic imbalances. This visit follows a historic trade agreement reached in May 2025, which marked a significant shift in U.S.-China trade relations by reducing tariffs and fostering reciprocal market access.

The 2025 agreement, negotiated in Geneva, Switzerland, saw both nations lower tariffs by 115% while retaining a baseline 10% tariff to protect domestic industries. The U.S. also suspended its 34% reciprocal tariff on Chinese goods for 90 days, with China reciprocating by removing retaliatory measures imposed earlier in 2025. These steps aim to reduce the U.S. goods trade deficit with China, which stood at $295.4 billion in 2024—the largest with any trading partner according to White House data.

The upcoming trip aligns with President Trump's broader "Fair and Reciprocal Plan," announced in February 2025, which seeks to address non-reciprocal trade practices globally. This initiative emphasizes reducing trade deficits, leveling the playing field for American workers, and countering unfair tariffs imposed by trading partners. For instance, the U.S. faces ethanol tariffs of 18% from Brazil compared to its 2.5% rate, and India's 39% average tariff on agricultural goods contrasts sharply with the U.S. 5% rate.

The March 2026 visit will also focus on enforcing commitments under the 2025 agreement, including measures to combat the fentanyl crisis by curbing the flow of illicit drug precursors from China. Additionally, both nations have agreed to establish a mechanism for ongoing trade discussions, with U.S. representatives including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer as detailed in official reports.

While the 2025 deal has been hailed as a win for American workers and businesses, analysts note that sustained progress will depend on China's adherence to agreed-upon reforms and the U.S. maintaining its tough stance on unfair practices. The trip underscores President Trump's emphasis on "America First" trade policy, which prioritizes domestic economic security and equitable global trade dynamics as outlined in official statements.

White House Fact Sheet, May 12, 2025: White House Fact Sheet, May 12, 2025
White House Fact Sheet, February 13, 2025: White House Fact Sheet, February 13, 2025
Reuters, February 9, 2026: Reuters, February 9, 2026