Trump signals possible tariff cuts on Chinese goods amid economic strain, but no talks with Xi are planned. Trade tensions persist, affecting manufacturing and prices globally.

Among all U.S. allies being wooed by Beijing in its tariff stare-down with Washington, Japan stands out as a peculiar case.

By Laurie Chen, Michael Martina BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -When the leaders of some of the world's largest companies flocked to Beijing for a business forum last month, their main purpose was a coveted meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.