Trump is on a charm offensive ahead of President Xi meeting—and he wants Elon Musk and Tim Cook in tow

Trump is on a charm offensive ahead of President Xi meeting—and he wants Elon Musk and Tim Cook in tow

Source: Fortune

Summary

President Trump is visiting China with a delegation of top US business leaders, including Elon Musk and Tim Cook, in an effort to ease tensions and improve trade relations. The visit comes after a year of escalating trade battles and tariffs. Trump has expressed optimism about the trip, saying “great things” will happen for both countries. China has managed to reduce its reliance on the US as a trading partner, which may weaken Trump’s hand in negotiations.


Our Reading

The numbers tell one story.

Trump brings a who’s who of US business to China, including Musk and Cook, in a charm offensive. The US and China have been engaged in a trade battle, but Trump says “great things” will happen. China’s exports have surged, driven by demand from Hong Kong, Germany, and South Korea. Musk’s attendance marks a return to the political circle after a public rift with Trump. The extent to which the rift is healed is unknown.

The White House is bringing out the big names, but will it be enough to thaw tensions and secure a trade deal?


Author: Evan Null