Trump hints at Mar-a-Lago meeting with Xi amid rare‑earth trade talks
U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that a personal visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to his Mar-a‑Lake resort could be on the table, contingent on progress in ongoing trade negotiations concerning rare‑earth minerals. The proposal was reported by political analysts after remarks from Treasury officials indicated a willingness to explore diplomatic incentives to secure a broader agreement.
According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the emerging deal would aim to prevent China from imposing new export controls on critical rare‑earth elements, while the United States would refrain from implementing a full 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods. Both sides have signaled that such concessions could ease supply‑chain pressures that have affected sectors ranging from electric‑vehicle production to consumer electronics.
U.S. officials described the potential Mar‑a‑Lake visit as a symbolic gesture designed to reinforce bilateral cooperation. “The president believes that a personal meeting could help build the trust needed to resolve outstanding trade issues,” a senior White House spokesperson said, without providing details on timing or logistics. Chinese authorities have not commented directly, but unnamed diplomats indicated that Beijing is evaluating the proposal alongside its own strategic interests.
Industry analysts note that the rare‑earth market has been a flashpoint in U.S.-China relations for years, with China historically dominating global supply. Recent export restrictions and heightened tariffs have prompted Washington to seek alternative sources and to negotiate safeguards against future disruptions. A mutually agreeable framework could stabilize prices and reduce the risk of a supply shock, benefitting manufacturers and consumers alike.
Observers caution that while the prospect of a high‑profile meeting may generate headlines, substantive progress will depend on the details of any trade pact and the willingness of both governments to compromise. The coming weeks are expected to feature intensified diplomatic outreach, with the outcome likely to influence not only trade policy but also broader geopolitical dynamics between the two powers.
