Xi Jinping Warns Against Trade Wars During Southeast Asia Tour
Chinese President Xi Jinping commenced a five-day diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia on April 14, 2025, starting with a two-day state visit to Vietnam, followed by scheduled stops in Malaysia and Cambodia. This tour marks Xi’s first overseas trip of the year and comes at a time of heightened trade tensions between China and the United States.
Xi Criticizes Trade Wars, Advocates for Global Cooperation
In an op-ed published in Vietnam’s Nhan Dan newspaper, Xi emphasized the detrimental effects of trade and tariff wars, stating that they “yield no winners” and that protectionism offers no solutions. He called for the protection of the multilateral trading system, the stability of global production and supply chains, and the maintenance of an open and cooperative international environment.
Context: Escalating China-US Trade Dispute
Xi’s remarks come in the wake of escalating trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump has imposed a 145% tariff on Chinese exports, while China has responded by raising tariffs on U.S. imports to 125%. These developments have created uncertainty in global markets and have particularly impacted Southeast Asian economies, many of which are closely tied to both China and the U.S.
Strengthening Regional Ties Amid Global Uncertainty
During his visit to Vietnam, Xi is expected to sign approximately 40 agreements, including those related to infrastructure development such as railway projects. Vietnam, which has seen a significant increase in imports from China, is navigating a complex relationship with both China and the U.S. amid these trade tensions.
Xi’s tour aims to reinforce China’s position as a stable and cooperative partner in the region, contrasting with the perceived unpredictability of U.S. trade policies. By advocating for multilateralism and open trade, Xi seeks to solidify China’s relationships with Southeast Asian nations during a period of global economic uncertainty.
