US–China trade thaw? Beijing buys $300 million in US soybeans after Trump–Xi phone call

China has purchased at least 10 cargoes of US soybeans, valued at approximately $300 million, following a call between Presidents Trump and Xi. These deals signal a potential thaw in trade relations, with shipments scheduled for January. Despite higher prices than Brazilian alternatives, state-run COFCO has been a significant buyer, with broader purchase agreements in place.