BEIJING: In response to rising protectionism from Washington, China is moving swiftly to broaden its global trade alliances and position itself as a proponent of open markets. Chinese officials on Tuesday framed the country’s strategy as one of “tearing down walls” and deepening global economic ties, amidst an intensifying tariff conflict with the United States.
The remarks come after US President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariff increases of up to 145% on Chinese imports this year, escalating tensions with Beijing and drawing criticism from international trade observers. China has retaliated with its own tariffs, raising levies on US goods by 125%.
“In the face of external uncertainties, China will insist on shaking hands rather than shaking fists, tearing down walls instead of building barriers, connecting instead of decoupling,” said Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
The trade row has raised alarms at the World Trade Organization, which warned that the conflict could reduce trade flows between the world’s two largest economies by as much as 80%, posing a significant risk to global economic growth.
Amid the heightened tensions, Chinese President Xi Jinping has embarked on a diplomatic tour across Southeast Asia, aiming to solidify regional partnerships. In Vietnam—currently facing potential US tariffs of up to 46%—Xi called for stronger cooperation in production and supply chains and denounced “unilateral bullying.” The two nations signed multiple agreements covering trade, supply chain integration, and railway development.
Xi’s tour continues this week with visits to Malaysia and Cambodia, both of which are also under scrutiny by US trade authorities and could be subject to new tariffs of 24% and 49%, respectively.
Back in Washington, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the administration’s actions. “These are not a joke. I mean these are big numbers,” Bessent told Bloomberg Television. “I think no one thinks they’re sustainable or wants them to remain here, but it’s far from a joke.”
Bessent also noted that any resolution to the trade dispute would require high-level engagement between President Trump and President Xi.
A commentary published in the state-owned People’s Daily reinforced China’s message of multilateralism and unity, urging countries to work together amid growing economic volatility. Citing The Wizard of Oz, the editorial argued, “Only unity and cooperation can meet the challenge,” and highlighted Beijing’s zero-tariff policies for several of its least developed trading partners.
As the global trade environment becomes increasingly fragmented, China is positioning itself as a counterbalance to protectionist policies—one that welcomes new alliances, particularly in the Global South and Southeast Asia.–REUTERS
