China Reaffirms Commitment to Global Cooperation Amid Uncertain Trade Landscape

During a recent press conference, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, highlighted China’s position as a significant market that offers vast opportunities to countries worldwide. In light of global uncertainties, he reiterated China's commitment to collaboration rather than confrontation, advocating for the removal of barriers instead of erecting them, and promoting connectivity rather than decoupling from global trade relationships.

Over the past weekend, the fifth China International Consumer Products Expo commenced, setting a record by attracting 65 Fortune Global 500 companies and more than 4,100 consumer brands. The following day, significant developments were reported at the 2025 Global Industrial Investment Promotion Conference for the Hainan Free Trade Port, where 265 projects were signed, involving approximately RMB 233.6 billion in investments. Additionally, the 137th Canton Fair opened in Guangzhou, boasting nearly 73,000 booths dedicated to export displays and surpassing 30,000 exhibitors for the first time.

Reports indicate that despite ongoing tariff and trade war challenges, China's extensive hosting of trade events reinforces its dedication to openness. Lin noted that the success of these gatherings reflects a strong commitment from all parties to bolster trade collaborations and oppose unilateralism and protectionist measures.

Lin also affirmed that China's commitment to increasing openness is integral to sharing its development with the global community. Since 2017, China has notably reduced its negative list for foreign investments from 93 to 29 items, eliminating all restrictions in the manufacturing sector. In the previous year alone, China welcomed the establishment of 59,000 foreign-invested companies, marking a 9.9 percent increase compared to the previous year. According to recent official data, China's total import and export volume reached RMB 10.3 trillion in the first quarter, with exports exceeding RMB 6 trillion, demonstrating a robust growth rate of 6.9 percent.

In conclusion, Lin underscored that China aims to further expand its trade network and enhance its attractiveness as an investment destination, promoting stability and positive energy within the global economy through high-quality development and open policies.