In a significant development aimed at de-escalating trade tensions, China and the United States have agreed to hold another round of negotiations in the coming week. This decision comes as the two global economic powerhouses strive to avert another round of retaliatory tariffs that could further strain their already fraught relationship. The announcement follows a recent phone call between Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, described by both sides as “candid, in-depth, and constructive.” The talks are expected to take place in person, with both parties emphasizing the urgency of resolving their ongoing trade dispute. The backdrop to these negotiations includes Beijing’s recent imposition of stringent controls on its rare earths industry, a move that prompted US President Donald Trump to threaten 100% tariffs on Chinese imports. Trump had also previously hinted at canceling his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. However, in a recent interview with Fox News, Trump confirmed that the meeting with Xi would proceed, acknowledging that the proposed tariffs were unsustainable. The rare earths issue remains a critical point of contention, as these materials are essential for a wide range of technologies, from smartphones to military equipment. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer also participated in the call, underscoring the high stakes of the negotiations. Both nations appear to be cautiously optimistic about finding a resolution, though the path forward remains uncertain.