The start of 2025 has been good for China and its reputation as a high-tech innovator. The unveiling of the Chinese-made artificial intelligence (AI) tool, DeepSeek, caused consternation on the US stock exchange and from potential competitors in Silicon Valley.

Now, however, he seems welcome once again. On February 17th Mr Ma and a handful of other entrepreneurs met at a symposium in Beijing with Xi Jinping, China’s supreme leader. Many see this as Mr Ma’s rescue from the wilderness—and a sign that, after a prolonged crackdown, private-sector tech is back in favour.

Former US President Donald Trump stated that his "very good relationship" with Chinese President Xi Jinping could pave the way for a new trade agreement. Speaking on Air Force One, Trump recalled his 2020 trade deal with China but acknowledged a competitive dynamic,

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, President Donald Trump said it would be possible to reach a fresh trade deal with China but did not describe the parameters of a potential agreement. Trump also said the relationship he has with Chinese leader Xi Jinping is "a great one.