Xi Jinping Sends Strong Message on Trade War During Southeast Asia Tour

 Xi Jinping Sends Strong Message on Trade War During       Southeast Asia Tour

In light of escalating trade tensions between China and the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping has conveyed a powerful message at the commencement of his Southeast Asia tour. His stance is unequivocal: a trade war yields no victors.

Before he visited Hanoi on Monday, Xi addressed Vietnam’s state media outlet Nhan Dan, underscoring the importance of global collaboration rather than conflict. He stated, “Nations should unite to promote comprehensive and inclusive global economic globalization.” He further asserted that trade wars and increased tariffs fail to resolve international conflicts and result only in shared detriment.

Xi emphasized the significance of supporting the multilateral trading system, ensuring the stability of global production and supply chains, and promoting an open and collaborative international atmosphere. "Even amidst a rise in unilateralism and protectionism, China continues to be a key driver of the global economy," Xi stated. He affirmed that China would persist in its commitment to high-level openness, generate more opportunities for the global community, and contribute to collective development through its own high-quality growth.

President Xi is undertaking a five-day journey that will take him to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. This trip occurs during a period of increased economic pressure, as U.S. President Donald Trump has enacted extensive tariffs—25% on steel, aluminum, and vehicles, along with a 10% baseline tariff affecting numerous countries. Trump has also indicated the possibility of new tariffs on semiconductors. Although a 90-day suspension of "reciprocal" tariffs has been granted to several trading partners, China is notably excluded, resulting in some Chinese exports facing tariffs as high as 145%.

In this context, Beijing is positioning itself as a dependable and stable trading partner for Southeast Asia. China is already the largest trading partner of ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and maintains strong trade relations with Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia individually.

Vietnam, in particular, is recognized as the region's largest importer of Chinese products. According to the General Department of Customs in Vietnam, the country's imports from China surged by over 30% in 2024, amounting to $144 billion.

After he visits Vietnam, Xi is set to proceed to Malaysia from Tuesday to Thursday, followed by a trip to Cambodia, further solidifying China's presence and influence in a region increasingly viewed as a geopolitical and economic battleground.