Survey: Slowing Chinese economy is top worry for U.S. businesses

An American Chamber of Commerce in China survey of 368 companies found 64% named slowing Chinese growth as their primary concern while 58% cited U.S.-China trade tensions.

U.S. companies operating in China reported that a slower Chinese economy is their main worry, according to a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in China. The survey collected responses from 368 firms between Oct. 22 and Nov. 20, 2025. Respondents noted trade tensions with the United States as a continuing challenge. The report also said business sentiment improved compared with the prior year. Key findings: - 64% of responding companies said slowing growth in China was their top worry. - 58% of respondents cited U.S.-China trade tensions as a key challenge. - More than half of those responding estimated they made a profit in 2025, up from less than half the previous year. - Chinese government data cited in the report showed foreign direct investment at 693 billion yuan in the first 11 months of 2025, down 7.5% from the prior year. Summary: The survey indicates that slower Chinese growth is the primary concern for many U.S. firms in China while trade tensions remain important. The report noted an improvement in profit estimates and market optimism versus last year. High-level visits are expected to continue diplomatic engagement, with President Donald Trump expected to visit Beijing in April and Chinese leader Xi Jinping possibly visiting the U.S. later this year, and how those developments will affect business outlook is undetermined at this time.