California and Chinese business leaders are doubling down on their economic partnership despite turbulent trade winds 🌪️. At a high-stakes Los Angeles forum this week, officials vowed to keep innovation flowing across the Pacific as U.S.-China tariffs create new hurdles.
Why it matters: The Golden State accounts for nearly 30% of all U.S.-China trade 💰, with tech, agriculture, and green energy sectors deeply intertwined. But recent tariffs on electric vehicles and semiconductors have left businesses scrambling for solutions.
Key quote: 'Like surfers riding the same wave 🏄♂️, we succeed together or wipe out separately,' said a Shanghai-based tech exec during panel talks. The forum saw deals signed in AI development and climate tech – areas less impacted by current tensions.
What's next: Both sides announced plans for a youth innovation exchange program 👩💻 and streamlined customs processes for agricultural exports. As one attendee tweeted: 'When DC throws up walls, we build bridges 🌉.'
