U.S. Trade Representative Says New Boards Will Formalize Trade Talks With China

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the United States and China have agreed to create a board of trade and a board of investment to manage their economic relationship.

Greer spoke on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan on May 17, 2026. He said the new boards will replace an ad hoc approach and allow the two governments to discuss tariffs, import controls and non-tariff barriers in a formal setting.

The trade representative said the talks will focus on non-sensitive goods such as agricultural products, energy, Boeing aircraft and medical devices. He said the investment board will act as a forum to resolve disputes when they arise.

Greer confirmed that China has agreed to buy 200 Boeing planes, the first major order in nearly 10 years. He said further purchases could follow if the first deliveries go well. He also said the two sides are finalizing details on a double-digit increase in Chinese purchases of U.S. agricultural products.

On tariffs, Greer said the United States retains the right to raise rates back to the level set in the Busan deal last October. He said the president is reviewing options from ongoing investigations into Chinese trade practices and overcapacity.

Greer said China has already reduced some non-tariff barriers on U.S. beef and poultry. He said the United States is seeking balanced trade and expects market opening in return for tariff stability.

Brennan noted that the U.S. trade deficit with China has fallen by about 31.5 percent. Greer said the reduction is a main goal of the administration.