President Donald Trump is pushing to create a new 'board of trade' with China, a proposal agreed upon with President Xi Jinping earlier this month, reports Politico of Arlington, Virginia.

Business groups and lobbyists view the plan as a potential opening for tariff relief. The idea, first raised by US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in March, is now being developed into a framework that could encompass US$30 billion or more in exports from each country.

The White House stated that the board will manage 'non-sensitive' goods, while China's Commerce Ministry described the agreement more cautiously as a principle to discuss reciprocal tariff reductions. Talks remain fluid, with officials considering reductions for consumer and low-tech goods, alongside managed-trade tools such as quotas and purchase commitments.

Industry groups are preparing feedback. Ed Brzytwa of the Consumer Technology Association indicated that his members will advocate for tariff relief on phones, laptops, and consoles. Stephen Lamar of the American Apparel & Footwear Association mentioned that his companies seek relief for imported inputs and equipment. Jonathan Gold of the National Retail Federation suggested starting with products exempted from Trump's first-term duties, such as apparel, footwear, and toys.

Greer told the Council on Foreign Relations that the administration has accepted the reality that comprehensive reform of China's economic system is unlikely, but managed trade could provide stability.

Analysts caution that defining 'non-sensitive' goods will be challenging. Ed Gresser of the Progressive Policy Institute noted the administration's broad use of national security tariffs, even on products like steel coffins. Wendy Cutler, a former US trade negotiator, stated that Mr. Trump has 'three and a half months' to finalize the framework before his next summit with Xi in September.