China’s Xi Jinping Warns There Are ‘No Winners’ In A Tariff War As He Visits Southeast Asia

HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — China’s President Xi Jinping emphasized the negative impact of a trade war as he began a diplomatic visit to Southeast Asia on Monday, positioning China as a source of stability in contrast to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent tariff actions. Despite Trump halting some tariffs, hefty duties of 145% on Chinese goods, from the world’s second-largest economy, remain in effect.

In a joint editorial published in Vietnamese and Chinese official media, Xi stated, “There are no winners in a trade war or a tariff war.” He urged both countries to uphold the multilateral trading system and maintain stable global industrial and supply chains.

Xi’s trip to Southeast Asia aims to showcase China as a responsible global power, highlighting a departure from the approach of the Trump administration. The visit holds significance amid the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, providing an opportunity for Beijing to strengthen alliances and address the trade barriers imposed by the U.S.

During his stay in Vietnam, Xi met with the country’s leaders, emphasizing the importance of peaceful development and deepening friendship and cooperation between China and Vietnam. The visit also included the signing of several memorandums, with plans to expedite an $8 billion railway project connecting the two nations.

The timing of Xi’s visit underscores the region’s importance to China, particularly in the face of U.S. tariffs. Vietnam, which maintains a delicate balance between the U.S. and China, has seen a surge in trade with China, while also cultivating strong ties with the U.S.

Vietnam, a key player in regional dynamics, faces challenges arising from the trade war between the U.S. and China. As Xi seeks to solidify China’s position in the region, Vietnam’s strategic stance in managing its relationships with both superpowers will be crucial.

Following his visit to Vietnam, Xi is expected to travel to Malaysia and Cambodia as part of his diplomatic tour.
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Wu reported from Bangkok. AP video journalist Hau Dinh contributed to this report.