Executives, scholars and global officials are optimistic that U.S. President Donald Trump’s planned state trip to China could strengthen cooperation and bring greater stability to relations between the world’s two biggest economies at a time of increasing global uncertainty.
Chinese President Xi Jinping invited Trump for the official visit, which is scheduled to take place from May 13 to May 15.
The two leaders initially met in 2017 during a period when both countries exchanged state visits, shaping the foundation of their relationship. Their most recent meeting took place in Busan, South Korea, in October 2025.
Over time, direct engagement between the two heads of state has remained important in guiding China-U.S. relations and preserving stability despite changing global dynamics. Since returning to office, Trump and Xi have spoken on the phone five times to discuss bilateral matters and wider international concerns.
Experts and business figures believe stronger engagement between Beijing and Washington would have positive effects not only for both nations but also for the global economy.
John E. Drew, chairman of the World Trade Centers Association, noted that China and the United States remain the world’s largest trading partners and stressed the importance of cooperation. He said both sides should work honestly and directly together to support economic growth and shared prosperity.
Anthony Moretti, associate professor and department head at the School of Communication and Media at Robert Morris University in Pennsylvania, said many around the world were hoping for successful talks amid ongoing global tensions.
According to Moretti, meetings between the American and Chinese presidents are always viewed positively by the international community. He added that with current global instability, the world is eager to see constructive outcomes from the visit.
Jim Sutter, chief executive officer of the U.S. Soybean Export Council, said he had observed sincere efforts from both governments and businesses to improve ties between the two countries.
Sutter explained that despite existing differences, cooperation between China and the United States would benefit both sides and contribute positively to the wider world economy.
Observers from different parts of the world have also expressed hope that improved dialogue between the two economic powers could create greater certainty and stability internationally.
Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the United Nations secretary-general, praised ongoing efforts by both governments to address disagreements through dialogue. Speaking at a UN briefing in New York, he said any progress in resolving economic policy differences between the two countries would benefit the global community.
Jasper Roctus, senior associate fellow at the Royal Institute for International Relations in Brussels, said increasing global economic connections have made cooperation more necessary than ever.
Roctus stated that because economies are now deeply linked, the consequences of political or economic conflict are much greater than in the past. He added that continued engagement despite disagreements reflects the reality of global interdependence.
Sizo Nkala, research fellow at the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, said nations across the Global South are paying close attention to the upcoming discussions.
Nkala explained that the meeting between Xi and Trump signals that both leaders recognize the importance of maintaining strong China-U.S. relations for the benefit of the world economy. He added that countries in the Global South, including South Africa, are hoping the talks will produce positive outcomes because decisions made by the two nations have major global economic effects.