China hopes that its refusal to bow to U.S. trade pressure will persuade Mr. Trump to seek a more conciliatory relationship with his country’s main rival.

Donald Trump claimed victory in trade talks with Xi Jinping on Thursday, securing concessions on rare earths elements, soybean sales and fentanyl, as he flew out from South Korea after their summit.

China pressed on Monday for open trade and stronger economic ties at a regional summit in Malaysia dominated by the shadow of steep U.S. tariffs, as Canada's premier expressed readiness to meet U.S. President Donald Trump to defuse trade tensions.