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China's VP Urges Free Trade Amid Global Economic Challenges

1/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

China's Vice Premier He Lifeng told the World Economic Forum that a rules-based international order matters and criticized unilateral actions, indirectly targeting the Trump administration.
He warned tariffs and trade wars hurt growth and urged free trade and globalization, noting imperfections but urging nations not to isolate themselves.
He noted China's household consumption remains below the global average and called for stronger domestic demand to absorb manufacturing surpluses.

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Story summary

China's Vice Premier He Lifeng told the World Economic Forum that a rules-based international order matters and criticized unilateral actions, indirectly targeting the Trump administration.
He warned tariffs and trade wars hurt growth and urged free trade and globalization, noting imperfections but urging nations not to isolate themselves.
He noted China's household consumption remains below the global average and called for stronger domestic demand to absorb manufacturing surpluses.