On March 22, 2025, U.S. Senator Steve Daines, a prominent supporter of President Donald Trump, engaged in a noteworthy meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Beijing. This encounter, marked by cordial exchanges before journalists, took place amid heightened tensions between the United States and China, particularly concerning trade tariffs and the ongoing illegal trade of fentanyl. Daines' visit is significant as he is the first member of Congress to travel to Beijing since Trump's inauguration in January 2017.
During his visit, Daines is scheduled to meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, who will brief him on the country’s policies. Daines has a history with China, having previously worked for Procter & Gamble in the southern city of Guangzhou. This marks Daines' sixth visit to China, with his last meeting with Li occurring in 2018 when Li served as the party secretary of Shanghai. Daines emphasized the importance of discussing critical issues between the two nations during this trip.
Daines has consistently advocated for constructive dialogue throughout his visits to China. Prior to his trip, his office communicated that he has been coordinating with the White House to promote President Trump’s "America First" agenda. He has a background in facilitating discussions during the Trump's first administration when tariffs were a contentious issue between the two nations.
The senator highlighted that topics on the agenda include curbing the production and distribution of fentanyl, addressing the trade deficit, and ensuring equitable market access for agricultural producers in Montana. Tensions escalated recently as the U.S. imposed 20% tariffs on Chinese goods, prompting China to retaliate with 15% tariffs on American agricultural products. Additionally, the U.S. government accused China of insufficient action to prevent the export of precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production, a potent opioid linked to numerous deaths in the U.S.
In response to these tensions, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi accused the United States of "meeting good with evil," stating that China would continue to respond to what it sees as unfair tariffs imposed by Washington. In a recent report, Beijing outlined its efforts to combat the illicit fentanyl trade and confirmed that its Narcotics Control Bureau engages in regular consultations with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.
The report reiterated China's commitment to cooperate with the U.S., while simultaneously opposing what it regards as unlawful sanctions and undue pressure regarding fentanyl-related issues. Daines' visit follows a trip to Vietnam, where he met with senior leaders, and he expressed optimism about the potential for meaningful negotiations during his time in China.
As Senator Daines navigates this complex landscape of U.S.-China relations, his engagements reflect a nuanced effort to foster dialogue amid ongoing geopolitical challenges. The outcomes of his discussions in Beijing may have implications for future interactions between the two global superpowers, especially in the areas of trade and drug-related issues.
