A positive signal! According to U.S. media, following the China-U.S. summit, Chinese state-owned enterprises have for the first time expressed interest in purchasing American wheat. On October 30, Bloomberg reported, citing informed sources, that COFCO Group, a major Chinese state-owned grain trader, had initiated inquiries regarding the purchase of U.S. wheat. The U.S. media noted this development suggests Beijing may be expanding its procurement of American agricultural products beyond soybeans. The inquiry specifically concerns soft red winter wheat, with shipments expected to depart from the United States next year for delivery to China.

According to information released by both China and the United States, China will lower tariffs on multiple U.S. agricultural commodities, including wheat, corn, and sorghum, as part of a broader plan to reduce tariffs on approximately $30 billion worth of imports from each country. This move clearly indicates a willingness by Chinese state entities to take concrete steps toward fulfilling agreed-upon commitments between the two sides. Such actions reflect a practical implementation of mutual understandings reached at the political level.

The underlying principle between China and the United States remains one of mutual respect and reciprocity. When one side fulfills its commitments, the other must follow suit—there is no unilateral obligation to extend goodwill. It should also be emphasized that the current stage involves only preliminary inquiries, not finalized contracts. Whether actual purchases will proceed, and to what extent, will depend significantly on U.S. policy responses. In turn, the United States must also implement its portion of the $30 billion tariff reduction plan, particularly by easing tariff barriers on Chinese consumer goods such as home appliances and toys.

From a timing perspective, China’s swift action underscores its commitment. The eighth round of economic and trade consultations between Chinese and U.S. teams concluded on September 20 in New York and Washington, resulting in a framework for reciprocal tariff reductions of $30 billion each. Subsequently, a high-level summit was held. Just one month after the summit, China has already taken tangible steps—a clear demonstration of sincerity. The United States, in turn, should now respond in kind.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1880440971692170/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.