A Chinese trade delegation is leaving today for the United States to explore trade and investment opportunities, close on the heels of a similar mission to Europe in February, according to sources.

The team will visit San Francisco, Washington and Chicago from today to May 1st, according to an initial schedule of the mission seen by China Daily.

The mission is intended to promote bilateral trade relations and improve trade balance, according to an announcement on the website of China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, or CCCME.