Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

China Advocates Multilateralism at Davos Amid Global Tensions

1/25/2026

36 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

China's Vice Premier He Lifeng used the World Economic Forum in Davos to advocate multilateralism and free trade, contrasting with the U.S. approach.
He Lifeng said China aims to be both a manufacturing hub and a consumer market.
Business leaders describe China's restrained strategy as a reliable partner amid U.S.–EU tensions.
China's economy grew 5% in 2025, demonstrating resilience in a turbulent global landscape.

History

Historical Context

Established on January 1, 1995, the World Trade Organization (WTO) succeeded the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) to regulate international trade among its 164 member countries. While the WTO has facilitated a significant reduction in tariffs, critics argue that its benefits are unevenly distributed, often disadvantaging developing nations and exacerbating economic inequality, particularly in countries like China and India.

1 of 2

Story summary

China's Vice Premier He Lifeng used the World Economic Forum in Davos to advocate multilateralism and free trade, contrasting with the U.S. approach.
He Lifeng said China aims to be both a manufacturing hub and a consumer market.
Business leaders describe China's restrained strategy as a reliable partner amid U.S.–EU tensions.
China's economy grew 5% in 2025, demonstrating resilience in a turbulent global landscape.

1 / 2