China pledges firm backing for free trade at Davos amid tariffs

China reaffirmed its support for free trade and multilateral economic cooperation at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, as global markets continue to feel the impact of rising tariff disputes. Speaking at the annual meeting, Vice Premier He Lifeng said trade conflicts over the past year have delivered sharp shocks to the world economy, undermining confidence in the global trading system at a time of heightened geopolitical strain.

Warning against tariff conflicts

He argued that tariff-based confrontations have created uncertainty for both developed and emerging economies, stressing that China has maintained a consistent stance in favour of open markets. “We should firmly support free trade and work together toward inclusive and broadly shared economic globalisation,” he said, presenting Beijing’s position as a counterweight to protectionist trends.

Globalisation and cooperation message

Acknowledging that economic globalisation has produced imbalances, He rejected calls for withdrawal into national isolation. “Globalisation is not flawless, but abandoning it is not the answer,” he said, adding that joint problem-solving through dialogue remains the only realistic option to correct its shortcomings and guide it in a more stable direction.

US-China trade context

Referring to relations between Beijing and Washington, He said cooperation delivers mutual benefits, while confrontation results in losses on both sides. The United States and China, the world’s two largest economies, resumed dialogue after a tariff dispute in 2025 and later reached a trade deal. He noted that differences between countries are natural, but emphasised that “equality, mutual respect and consultation” should define international economic relations, a principle also relevant for middle powers such as Türkiye navigating global trade shifts.