Trump's Asia Diplomatic Mission: Gains and Risks

Sun Oct 26 2025 11:21:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

US President Donald Trump embarks on a pivotal diplomatic tour in Asia, engaging with major leaders like Xi Jinping and discussing crucial trade relations amid pressures of global economics.

As Donald Trump sets out on a diplomatic visit through Asia, his schedule includes high-stakes meetings with leaders from China, Japan, and South Korea. The focus remains on trade negotiations, particularly with China, as tensions have been escalating. Analyst perspectives cover potential benefits for both sides while evaluating the challenges each leader faces during this critical week of diplomacy.

US President Donald Trump is arriving in Asia for a whirlwind week of diplomacy, which includes a much-anticipated meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.

Top of the agenda between the two will be trade – an area where tensions between the world’s two biggest economies have once again been ramping up.

Trump lands in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, as a summit for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or Asean, begins on Sunday. He will then visit Japan and finally South Korea, where the White House says he will meet Xi.

What are the wins Trump and other leaders are hoping for, and what are the pitfalls? Our correspondents explain.

For Trump, China is the key

By Anthony Zurcher, North America correspondent

Inking new trade deals that provide opportunities to American businesses while keeping the tariff revenue flowing into the US Treasury is sure to be a central focus of Trump's Asia trip.

The key to Trump’s success is China; his scheduled meeting with Xi could set the course for US-China relations for the future. Trump has acknowledged that current tariffs are unsustainable, and escalating tensions would have vast repercussions.

When Trump returns, he is likely to be satisfied if he can secure deals with South Korea and garner new Japanese investments.

Xi's long game

By Laura Bicker, China correspondent

Xi wants to be the tougher negotiator in the talks with Trump. He may leverage China's hold on rare earths, which are critical for many US industries, while seeing Trump's trade policies as less of a threat now that the US is not as crucial to China's economy.

A starring role in 'peace'

By Jonathan Head, South East Asia correspondent

During his visit to Malaysia, Trump will play a central role in a ceremonial peace accord between Thailand and Cambodia, as both countries aim to de-escalate tensions under pressure from Trump.

Ink on paper, please

By Suranjana Tewari, Asia business correspondent

Manufacturers across Asia are looking for relief from Trump's tariffs. Many businesses are keen to see signed agreements to stabilize the environment.

An early test for Japan's new PM

By Shaimaa Khalil, Japan correspondent

This week, Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will need to forge a solid relationship with Trump, especially regarding defense spending and trade agreements that benefit Japanese auto manufacturers.

Talking tariffs as Kim Jong Un looms

By Jake Kwon, Seoul correspondent

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will address Trump’s tariffs during their discussions. While Trump and Kim Jong Un's meeting prospects spark speculation, trade negotiations remain paramount for Seoul as they attempt to secure favorable terms.