What to Watch at the Trump-Xi Summit

China often develops catchy names and numbers for its major policy initiatives—wrapping up complex agendas and outcomes in short, repeatable constructs that shape how they are understood. What’s your "formula" for the Trump-Xi summit—what matters most, what each side wants, where a deal is possible, and where the real risks lie?

By Gracie Sun

September 21, 2026

BSR: Business, Security, and Redlines

Business, security, and redlines are likely the key areas for discussion by the two presidents, given all the dynamics in U.S.-China relations and the global geopolitics. It is expected that both sides will reach some deals for business (e.g. tariff, export). National security related issues (including tech competition) remain a concern and will have an impact on the scope of consensus. Very likely, both sides will also exchange positions on redlines. Although no significant breakthroughs are expected, the visit itself has already set forth a big step for managing strategic differences and stabilizing the U.S.-China relations, at least to maintain “grace period.”

Gracie Sun

Basilinna Chair of Asia-Pacific

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