The latest showdown between China and the US over Huawei is likely to puncture Australian business hopes for some easing in Australia’s tense political relationship with China.

A swag of business leaders, as well as Australia’s new trade minister, are expected to head to China next week for what has become an annual AFL fixture in Shanghai on June 2, with meetings and events planned around it. It’s become a practical if modest step in trying to improve the general tone and mutual engagement after a difficult period between the two governments.