Krakowskie Studia Międzynarodowe / Krakow International Studies

Abstract

This article examines the conflicts and negotiations leading to the development and conclusion of trade agreements between the United States and China. This issue has a long history, dating back to the period when China was still a non-market economy engaged in disputes with market economy countries belonging to the globalist network of international organizations. Therefore, the authors utilize a historical-comparative methodology in this study.
The article consists of three main parts, the first of which is devoted to an analysis of thematic issues from the period preceding China’s accession to the WTO. Part two focuses on U.S.-China relations during Donald Trump’s first term and the early part of his second term as president. It focuses on the issue of subsidies used by non-market economies or those in transition, as well as the parallel application of countervailing and anti-dumping duties in relations with these countries. It also examines U.S.-China monetary disputes and disputes over freedom of communication, including internet freedom. The final part focuses on the ongoing negotiations leading to the development and conclusion of a trade agreement between the United States and China in the last week of June 2025. While the details of the agreement are not yet fully known, the agreement was undoubtedly expected to be a breakthrough in international trade relations. For a time, the agreement’s significance was undermined by the threat of tariffs on the People’s Republic of China for purchasing Russian oil. The recurring conflict between the two powers was highlighted by the media during the exchange of accusations between delegations of both countries in Alaska in parallel with President Donald Trump’s meeting with Wladimir Putin.