US Chamber CEO Enhances Business Ties Visits China Cordially

27 Feb, 2024

US Chamber CEO Enhances Business Ties Visits China Cordially

The head of the US Chamber of Commerce is currently on a significant visit to China, underscoring the growing rapport between the world's leading economies and rivals. Suzanne Clark, CEO of the influential US business lobby group, is leading a delegation comprising former US government officials in Beijing. This delegation aims to engage with high-level Chinese government officials and local business leaders, as well as executives from the American business community and representatives of the foreign diplomatic corps. Notably, Susan Schwab, a former US Trade Representative, is accompanying Clark, enhancing the delegation's profile and influence.

This visit follows recent efforts by Washington and Beijing to mend relations, particularly after a meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping. Such efforts have led to resumed communications between the two militaries, establishment of working groups on economic and financial matters, and collaboration on combating the flow of fentanyl to the US. Recent engagements include meetings between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, as well as discussions between Treasury Undersecretary Jay Shambaugh and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.

Despite ongoing tensions, US companies remain cautiously optimistic about China's business environment, as revealed in a late 2023 survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in China. Clark's visit coincides with AmCham China's annual appreciation dinner, where Chinese Vice President Han Zheng is expected to be the guest of honor. This invitation signifies improved US-China relations and Beijing's outreach to the foreign business community. Notably, the event's previous attendees and the ticket pricing reflect the evolving dynamics of US-China engagement and the importance of economic diplomacy in fostering cooperation.