China is evaluating the potential impact of a gradual yuan depreciation, people familiar with the matter said, as the country's leaders weigh their options in a trade spat with U.S. President Donald Trump that has roiled financial markets worldwide.

Senior Chinese officials are studying a two-pronged analysis of the yuan that was prepared by the government, the people said. One part looks at the effect of using the currency as a tool in trade negotiations with the United States, while a second part examines what would happen if China devalues the yuan to offset the impact of any trade deal that curbs exports.

The analysis doesn't mean officials will carry out a devaluation, which would require approval from top leaders, the people said, asking not to be named as the information is private.