International Trade Bulletin — May 11, 2025

U.S.–China Geneva Talks Resume

On May 11, top U.S. and Chinese trade envoys met in Geneva for fresh negotiations aimed at rolling back punitive tariffs—up to 145% by the U.S. and 125% by China—impacting over $660 billion in bilateral commerce.

China’s Declining Consumer Prices

April marked the third consecutive monthly drop in China’s consumer price index, reflecting weakened domestic demand amid the ongoing tariff standoff with the United States.

Malaysia Leads ASEAN Legal Unification

As 2025 ASEAN Chair, Malaysia is spearheading efforts to harmonize trade regulations across member states, creating a single, cohesive legal framework to boost internal trade and bolster the region’s global trade posture.

UN Warns of Copper Shortages

The United Nations has issued a warning that a global copper supply shortfall threatens to delay the worldwide energy transition and the deployment of semiconductor and telecommunications technologies.

Nepal’s Call for Foreign Investment

Dhakal, President of Nepal’s Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, urged foreign investors to partner with Nepal, highlighting FDI as critical to driving sustainable economic growth and infrastructure development.