Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to embark on a tour of Southeast Asia from April 14 to 18, 2025, visiting Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. This marks his first overseas trip of the year and comes amid escalating trade tensions with the United States, which has imposed significant tariffs on Chinese goods. The visit aims to bolster diplomatic and economic ties with these neighboring countries, many of which are also affected by U.S. tariffs.
During the trip, China and Vietnam are expected to sign approximately 40 agreements, including collaborations on railway development and potential defense and police cooperation. While many of these agreements may be non-binding, they signify a concerted effort by China to strengthen regional alliances. Additionally, Chinese officials have been engaging with partners in the European Union, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa to advocate for a fair and reformed global trading system.
Context & Background
The escalating trade tensions between China and the United States have led to significant economic repercussions globally. The U.S., under President Donald Trump, has imposed tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese imports, citing violations and other concerns. In response, China has retaliated with 84% tariffs on U.S. goods, describing U.S. actions as economic bullying. These measures have prompted China to seek stronger alliances with neighboring countries to mitigate the impact of the trade conflict.
China’s outreach to Southeast Asian nations is not new. The ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), established in 2010, has been a cornerstone of economic cooperation between China and ASEAN member states. Additionally, initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which includes China and several Southeast Asian countries, aim to further enhance regional trade and economic integration.
However, China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia has been met with mixed reactions. While economic ties have deepened, some ASEAN members express concerns about becoming entangled in geopolitical tensions between major powers. A recent survey indicated a shift in regional sentiment, with greater trust in the U.S. over China, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the region.
In This Story
Xi Jinping
Xi Jinping is the President of the People’s Republic of China and General Secretary of the Communist Party of China. He has been in office since 2013 and has overseen significant domestic and international policies.
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising ten Southeast Asian countries, which promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and sociocultural integration among its members and other Asian states.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. His administration implemented significant changes in U.S. trade policy, including imposing tariffs on various countries, notably China.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
RCEP is a free trade agreement among 15 Asia-Pacific nations, including China and ASEAN member states. It is the world’s largest trade bloc, aiming to lower tariffs and promote trade among member countries.
