JOHANNESBURG, May 7 (Reuters) - The South African rand

was little changed in early trade on Wednesday, as global

investors focused on an interest rate decision by the U.S.

Federal Reserve later in the day.

At 0650 GMT, the rand traded at 18.22 against the dollar

compared with Tuesday's closing level of 18.19.

The Fed is widely expected to keep rates steady, amid

concerns over an economic slowdown due to U.S. President Donald

Trump's tariffs.

News that U.S. and Chinese officials are due to hold talks

eased concerns about a trade war that have shaken investor

confidence in the dollar and U.S. markets.

No major South African economic data releases are expected

on Wednesday.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will launch the second phase of an

economic reform drive aimed at lifting the country's potential

growth rate.

Thursday's data releases include local manufacturing

and foreign reserves data.

South Africa's benchmark 2030 government bond was

flat, the yield at 8.92%.