TIANJIN, CHINA – June 25:
In a clear and urgent tone, Chinese Premier Li Qiang addressed global concerns during the opening ceremony of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Tianjin, warning that the world is entering a period of increasing trade conflict and economic uncertainty.
“Trade tensions are no longer simmering—they’re intensifying,” Li said, speaking before global leaders including Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Known as the “Summer Davos,” the WEF gathering in this bustling northern port city has become a barometer for global economic sentiment.
Without naming names, Li took aim at recent protectionist policies—widely seen as a reference to sweeping tariffs initiated by the former Trump administration in the United States.
“More and more countries are resorting to protectionist measures, and global trade friction is on the rise,” he said. “But in today’s deeply connected world, no nation can truly thrive in isolation. Growth must come through cooperation, not confrontation.”
Li painted China as a committed player in the global economy—one that still believes in the power of collaboration and shared success, even as others turn inward.
At home, Li said, China is taking bold steps to reinvigorate its economy. Despite facing sluggish growth and weaker consumer spending, he stressed that the country remains a pillar of global recovery.
“Our domestic demand strategy is working to transform China into a major consumption-driven economy,” he said. “We’re building on our strengths in manufacturing to push forward.”
Beijing is targeting around 5% growth this year—a goal many economists consider ambitious. The government has responded with a mix of policy tools: cutting interest rates, easing homebuying restrictions, and encouraging investment. The results so far have been mixed, especially as trade pressure from U.S. tariffs looms over China’s manufacturing sector.
Li’s remarks came just a day after Chinese President Xi Jinping told Singapore’s Lawrence Wong that countries should reject a return to protectionism and avoid being pulled into power struggles.
Leaders from across Asia echoed that message. Prime Minister Wong urged fellow nations not to abandon economic integration, warning that the alternative—a world of “me first” politics—could undermine global peace.
“Integration may not guarantee peace,” Wong noted, “but it certainly improves our odds.”
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh added that Vietnam finds itself in a delicate position, with the U.S. as its biggest export market and China as its largest source of imports. “We aim to be friends with all,” he said. “But we must also be prepared—because the world has become increasingly unpredictable.”
The message from Tianjin was clear: In a time of rising walls, countries like China are calling for more bridges.
