• High-level US-China trade talks will begin May 9–12, with Treasury Secretary Bessent and China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng attending the first face-to-face since January.
• Both sides say they’re open to talks, but remain firm—China vows to fight to the end if needed, while Bessent says this round is more about “de-escalation” than sealing a deal.
• Market reaction was mixed, with experts warning not to expect breakthroughs—importers should prepare for a long negotiation track.