Chinese cryptocurrencies gain prominence as Trump and Beijing open trade talks

The coming days could be decisive for China’s cryptocurrencies. With American and Chinese authorities scheduled to meet in Switzerland this week, the Made-in-China digital asset market is on the radar. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will meet with Chinese officials to discuss a possible easing of trade tensions after tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Although no major agreement is expected, signs of openness are already reflected in asset behavior. China’s leading cryptocurrencies have shown positive movement in recent hours, fueling speculation about how potential trade negotiations could impact the Eastern crypto sector.

Made-in-China Coins Respond to Negotiation Signals

Chinese tokens have performed variably as trade discussions gain momentum. According to data from February 25, 2026, the main assets were:

• Conflux (CFX): $0.05, up 6.93% in 24 hours
• VeChain (VET): $0.01, up 5.57%
• OKB: $76.57, surprising with a 5.37% advance
• NEO (NEO): $2.72, up 3.96%
• TRON (TRX): $0.29, up 1.94%

Made-in-China cryptocurrencies represent blockchain projects developed or significantly linked to the country. Among them, NEO, often compared to Ethereum, and Tron, known for high transaction capacity and lower fees, stand out. The performance of these assets tends to reflect market sentiment regarding Chinese policies and the global trade environment.

Traders assess how changes in U.S.-China trade relations could serve as catalysts for these tokens. Weeks of tariff concerns have given way to more optimistic prospects, translating into renewed demand for assets associated with the Chinese crypto ecosystem.

Bitcoin: Who Really Controls Global Mining?

Although China has ceded its leadership position in Bitcoin mining, its influence remains significant. A report from the Cambridge Digital Mining Industry in April 2025 shows that the U.S. now dominates in hash rate, while China has fallen in operational rankings.

However, the scenario is more complex than it appears. China remains the largest exporter of ASIC miners (specialized mining devices), essential for the global Bitcoin mining infrastructure. This strategic position ensures ongoing influence even without officially authorized domestic operations.

A study by the University of Cambridge’s Center for Alternative Finance in October 2024 quantified the reality: approximately 21% of the global Bitcoin hash power is still linked to China. Regions like Inner Mongolia, with access to cheap electricity and infrastructure focused on renewable energy sources, serve as hubs for clandestine operations.

China’s Unofficial Cryptocurrency Economy Could Rewrite the Game

The Chinese mining infrastructure is consolidated despite official restrictions. Nic Puckrin, co-founder of Coin Bureau and recognized crypto expert, commented on the situation: “Although not officially authorized, the infrastructure is in place: from offshore mining to cross-border trading networks. With increasing global momentum for cryptocurrency adoption and the U.S. taking apparent leadership, China may be encouraged to engage more strategically, even if not publicly.”

This analysis points to a scenario where Chinese cryptocurrencies will remain relevant regardless of the official regulatory environment. Ongoing trade negotiations could accelerate a possible shift in China’s stance toward the crypto sector, especially benefiting Made-in-China tokens that already enjoy a solid user base and liquidity in the global market.