WSJ: Beijing considers whether to replace U.S.-China trade talks chief Liu He

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He.

The Wall Street Journal reports that sources say Beijing authorities are considering whether to replace Liu He, the commander-in-chief of U.S.-China trade talks, with Vice Premier Hu Chunhua as his replacement, a move that has not yet been finalized.

This change in personnel by the Communist Party of China (CPC) authorities indicates that Beijing is readjusting its attitude toward the U.S. government. After the U.S. and China reached a “Phase I Trade Agreement” early last year, Beijing’s focus has shifted from tariffs to urging Washington to loosen sanctions against mainland companies, particularly telecom giant Huawei. Liu He is currently vice premier of the State Council.