Disney CEO meets top Chinese official as company navigates US‑China tensions

Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Disney CEO Bob Iger in Beijing and reportedly encouraged further investment. The meeting was reported as taking place against limits on foreign film imports and broader U.S.-China trade tensions.

Bob Iger, chief executive of Disney, met Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Beijing, state media reported. Ding was reported as encouraging Disney to invest further in China. The meeting took place amid ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions that have affected cultural exchanges and film imports. China has long maintained limits on the number of foreign films allowed into its market. Key facts: - Bob Iger met Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Beijing, according to state media. - Ding reportedly encouraged Disney to increase its investment in China. - Beijing warned last April it could further restrict Hollywood film imports in response to U.S. tariffs, as reported. - For about three decades China has capped foreign film imports at roughly 10 films per year. - Analysts cited in the report estimate Hollywood films account for about 5% of China’s box office receipts. - Disney opened Shanghai Disneyland and Universal Studios opened a park in Beijing; the visit prompted renewed speculation about a possible second Disney park in China. Summary: The meeting was reported as an instance of engagement between a major U.S. entertainment company and senior Chinese officials, set against existing limits on foreign films and broader trade tensions. Undetermined at this time.