The US business community can no longer resist political pressure for Washington to take a tougher stand against China on trade issues, according to a senior figure from the US Chamber of Commerce.

Myron Brilliant, senior vice-president for international affairs, who has previously help to protect Beijing from hawkish trade policies, told the Financial Times: “I don't think the Chinese government can count on the American business community to be able to push back and block action [on Capitol Hill].”

Speaking on the eve of a trip to Beijing, where he will meet senior Chinese officials, Mr Brilliant added: “Certainly the chamber remains a bridge in support of the relationship but it is a difficult time to keep the wolves at bay. China shouldn't take the American business community for granted.”