China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, warned that the Taiwan issue poses the biggest risk in US-China relations ahead of Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to Beijing on May 14-15, 2026.
Wang stated that both nations must safeguard stability and prepare for key interactions. He emphasized the importance of managing differences while expanding cooperation.
As of early Tuesday, China maintains that Taiwan is part of its territory. The Taiwan issue remains a core interest for China and a significant point of contention in its relationship with the United States.
In a broader context, China’s tobacco industry plays a crucial role in its economy. China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of tobacco, with over 300 million smokers.
Key statistics:
- A 2024 study by the China CDC found that smoking prevalence among Chinese adults aged 15 and older was 23.2%.
- The Healthy China 2030 plan aims to reduce this prevalence to 20% by 2030.
- The UK has enacted a Tobacco and Vapes Bill to create a ‘smoke-free generation’ through gradual increases in the legal age for tobacco sales.
The intertwining of tobacco control with state interests complicates efforts to reduce smoking rates. Experts suggest that China could adopt strategies similar to Britain’s tobacco-ban logic without directly copying its laws.
The upcoming visit by Trump may further complicate trade relations between the two powers, especially if discussions on Taiwan take center stage.