Trump used to slam China. Here’s why he’s now rolling out the red carpet for Xi

AP Economics Writer Josh Boak reports that President Donald Trump’s approach toward China has shifted markedly from the confrontational rhetoric and tariff strategy that defined his earlier political career. Ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit, Trump has increasingly emphasized his personal relationship with Xi, describing him warmly and appearing reluctant to confront Beijing on several contentious issues.

The article argues that this change followed difficulties with Trump’s earlier tariff strategy. China used its dominant position in rare-earth minerals as leverage during the trade confrontation, helping produce a trade truce rather than major structural changes in Chinese economic policy. International Crisis Group adviser Michael Kovrig characterizes that episode as one in which Xi gained leverage over Trump.

At the same time, China has continued expanding its manufacturing strength, artificial-intelligence capabilities, electric-vehicle industry and global exports. Although the U.S. goods trade deficit with China has declined compared with 2025, AP notes that some Chinese goods may be moving through other countries to reduce tariff exposure. China recorded a roughly $1.2 trillion global trade surplus last year, while its manufacturers continued gaining ground internationally.

The article also raises questions about Trump’s broader alliance strategy. Kovrig argues that tensions Trump has created with Canada and European allies have weakened the coalition that could otherwise exert collective pressure on Beijing and have encouraged some Western governments to strengthen their own relationships with China.

Trump can point to diplomatic benefits from his relationship with Xi, particularly the frequency and prominence of their meetings. But AP says it remains unclear whether Xi’s upcoming state visit will produce a significant agreement on trade, security, AI, rare earths or another policy area. Georgetown professor Evan Medeiros suggests the principal outcome may simply be maintaining the relationship itself.

Bottom line: The AP piece portrays Trump as moving from attempting to pressure China economically toward relying more heavily on personal diplomacy with Xi. Its central question is whether that warmer relationship will produce concrete U.S. gains—or whether China is strengthening its economic and strategic position while avoiding major concessions. The article was updated September 20, 2026.