On September 20, 2026, China announced the appointment of Li Chenggang as its new international trade negotiator, a position that elevates him just hours before anticipated trade discussions in New York with the United States. Li's previous role at the Ministry of Commerce has been transformed into a broader capacity, although details regarding the rationale for this change remain undisclosed.
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Alongside Li, Ling Ji has been designated as the deputy international trade negotiator, signaling fresh leadership in China's trade negotiations. As of the recent announcement, Li was still listed on the Ministry of Commerce’s website as both vice commerce minister and international trade negotiator, implying a potentially expanded scope in his responsibilities.
This transition comes as negotiations between China and the US are set to advance, aiming to facilitate a potential meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and former US President Donald Trump. Since taking on trade discussions last year, Li has been a central figure in China's economic engagements with Washington.