U.S China Trade Deal May Take Up to 3 Years: Bessent
Treasury Secretary Bessent says a full U.S.-China trade agreement could take 2–3 years, reflecting complex negotiations.
- Full trade deal between U.S. and China could take 2–3 years
- Treasury Secretary Bessent emphasizes long-term strategy
- Talks signal cautious but ongoing economic diplomacy
Long Road Ahead for U.S.-China Trade Deal
U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent has confirmed that a comprehensive trade deal between the United States and China may not be finalized for another two to three years. The announcement reflects the deep complexity of economic negotiations between the world’s two largest economies.
Speaking on the state of bilateral trade, Bessent emphasized that while discussions are ongoing, both sides are navigating a range of sensitive issues—from tariffs and market access to intellectual property and tech regulations.
Strategic Patience Over Quick Agreements
Rather than rushing into a short-term deal, the Biden administration appears to be favoring a methodical and long-term approach. Bessent suggested that such careful pacing is necessary to build a sustainable framework that addresses not just trade balances, but also strategic competition.
This measured strategy may help avoid the pitfalls of previous deals that were either too narrow or quickly unraveled under pressure.
Implications for Markets and Policy
The extended timeline may impact global markets and policy decisions, especially for sectors heavily influenced by trade tensions, such as technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Investors, businesses, and policymakers alike will be closely watching for incremental updates, as even small shifts in the negotiation process can send ripple effects across global supply chains and financial markets.
