In a playful nod to history, over 250 Chinese and U.S. business leaders swapped suits for sneakers this week, hitting the basketball court to spark fresh collaboration. The event, held on February 12, 2026, echoed the iconic “ping pong diplomacy” of the 1970s—but this time, it’s all about layups and three-pointers. 🏀
Executives from tech, green energy, and consumer goods sectors mixed fast breaks with faster deal-making, discussing AI partnerships and sustainable supply chains. “Sports break down walls,” said one Shanghai-based CEO. “When you’re high-fiving over a rebound, negotiations feel less like a zero-sum game.”
This year’s collaboration push comes as both nations navigate a shifting economic landscape. While tariffs and tech restrictions still loom, events like these highlight a shared appetite for innovation. Analysts say hybrid diplomacy—part sport, part strategy—could redefine cross-Pacific ties in the TikTok era. 💡
