The recent high-level engagement between China and the United States has attracted renewed attention to the future of trade and investment between the two countries.
In September 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the United States and met with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meeting followed President Trump’s earlier visit to China in May. The two countries subsequently announced a number of understandings covering tariffs, trade, investment and cooperation in areas including artificial intelligence.
For Australian businesses, the significance of these developments extends beyond the China–U.S. relationship itself. Australia maintains substantial trading and investment relationships with both countries. Changes in tariffs, supply chains and investment conditions in either market can have flow-on effects for Australian businesses involved in international trade.
What Australian businesses should consider?
Trade and supply chains.
Businesses sourcing goods from China or the United States may need to consider whether changes in tariffs or trading arrangements affect procurement costs, delivery arrangements and contractual obligations.
Cross-border investment.
Greater stability in China–U.S. economic relations may create new investment opportunities. Australian businesses considering transactions involving Chinese or U.S. investors should nevertheless continue to assess applicable Australian foreign investment and regulatory requirements.
Technology and intellectual property.
The two countries’ continuing discussions on artificial intelligence and technology may have implications for businesses dealing with technology licensing, intellectual property, data and cross-border technology transfers.
Geopolitical and regulatory risk.
The recent developments do not eliminate the broader regulatory risks associated with doing business across multiple jurisdictions. Sanctions, export controls, foreign investment rules and changes in government policy remain relevant to international transactions.
For Australian businesses with commercial interests in China, the United States, or both, the latest developments provide an opportunity to review existing supply, investment and contractual arrangements and consider whether changes in the international trading environment require adjustments to their business strategy.
Yingke Australia will continue to monitor developments in international trade and investment policy and their implications for Australian businesses.