Wendy Cutler comments on the recent U.S.-China agreement to lower tariffs on $60 billion worth of goods, emphasizing the complexities and challenges ahead in bilateral trade relations.
On September 28, 2026, Wendy Cutler, a former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, shared her insights regarding the recent agreement between the United States and China to reduce tariffs on $60 billion worth of goods. This agreement follows a summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Cutler, who currently serves as Senior Vice President at the Asia Society Policy Institute, expressed cautious optimism about the trade deal, noting it as a significant outcome from the Trump-Xi meeting.
However, she pointed out that the White House’s announcement lacks clarity on when consumers can expect to see these tariff reductions reflected in stores. Both nations still need to navigate their domestic procedures before implementing the changes. For the United States, this may involve seeking public comment on the product list, although the language of the agreement suggests limited room for revisions.
Cutler highlighted a notable aspect of the trade dynamics, mentioning that the mandate of the Board of Trade is focused on “optimizing” trade rather than “managing” it, as articulated by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. This modest mandate mirrors the current state of U.S.-China trade relations, which have increasingly shifted toward sensitive sectors. Consequently, both countries are reducing their reliance on one another rather than actively seeking to enhance trade.
One significant issue remains unresolved: U.S. access to critical minerals and magnets. Cutler pointed out that China continues to impose restrictions on exports to the United States in this vital sector. Reports indicate that U.S. imports of these materials have decreased to approximately two-thirds of previous levels. Despite ongoing efforts from Washington to persuade Beijing to increase exports, the United States has yet to achieve substantial progress.
Cutler characterized the trade and investment outcomes announced thus far as incremental, reflecting limited ambitions and a focus on procedural matters. She noted that the upcoming meetings between Trump and Xi later this year may have alleviated some pressure to deliver more substantial results during this summit.
Despite these challenges, Cutler emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in bilateral economic relations. She advocated for seeking small avenues for increased trade and investment, while also working to avoid escalating tensions. Ensuring a steady flow of critical minerals and magnets from China remains a priority for the U.S.
For media inquiries regarding interviews with Wendy Cutler, please contact pr@asiasociety.org.
According to Asia Society Policy Institute.