Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to begin a key tour of Southeast Asia on Monday, starting with Vietnam, before visiting Malaysia and Cambodia. 

The visit comes as Beijing aims to reinforce regional alliances amid intensifying trade tensions with the United States.

Chinese officials have framed the trip as a diplomatic priority, using it to present China as a reliable economic partner. This contrasts with the U.S., whose abrupt imposition—and later suspension—of tariffs has rattled the export-dependent region. Vietnam and Cambodia, whose economies heavily rely on exports like garments and electronics, were especially impacted by U.S. tariffs reaching up to 49%.

During his Vietnam visit, Xi is expected to sign several agreements, including infrastructure cooperation deals. China’s efforts also follow its demand for Washington to cancel its sweeping 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, labeling the U.S. approach as “mistaken.”

Former U.S. trade negotiator Stephen Olson said China would likely portray itself as a steward of global trade norms while casting the U.S. as unpredictable.

For Hanoi, balancing ties with both global powers is increasingly delicate. While the U.S. is a vital trade and security partner, China remains a dominant force in regional commerce. Hanoi has reportedly offered tariff concessions to Washington and pledged to buy more American goods.

Meanwhile, Cambodia, a long-time Chinese ally, risks major economic disruption, with 25% of its GDP tied to U.S. exports. Xi’s visit is expected to reaffirm China’s influence there, following recent infrastructure projects.

Xi’s Southeast Asia tour reflects China’s broader push to strengthen ties as it faces mounting trade pressures. The Chinese leader also recently spoke with EU leaders and pledged deeper cooperation with Indonesia in a wider diplomatic outreach.

Source: The Guardian

BDST: 1338 HRS, APR 14, 2025
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