Chinese Prime Minister Calls for Expanding Free Trade Amid Rising Protectionism

Beijing, March 22 (KUNA) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang called for adhering to openness and expanding free trade, while safeguarding a market system based on fair competition, amid rising unilateralism and protectionism. Xinhua News Agency reported that Li made these remarks in a speech at the opening ceremony of the 2026 China Development Forum, held on Sunday in Beijing. The event was attended by 750 participants, including Dilma Rousseff, president of the New Development Bank, and Jin Liqun, president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, as well as representatives from domestic and international business and economic circles.

Li stated that the international situation is undergoing profound and complex changes, with unilateralism and protectionism intensifying alongside growing forces for cooperation and development. While traditional economic sectors face growth challenges, emerging markets are brimming with immense growth potential. He added that power politics are spreading unchecked, prompting louder calls for justice and fairness, while the international rules-based order faces severe shocks. At the same time, many countries are pushing forward reforms of global governance.

He emphasized the importance of committing to openness, promoting free trade, and fostering innovation, noting that protectionism is not a “magic cure” for problems. China’s exports and imports are conducted fairly and in accordance with established rules. Li expressed China’s resolve to import more high-quality foreign products and to work with all parties to steer trade toward balanced development and to collaborate in enlarging the “global trade pie.”

He observed that development inevitably involves competition, and that a healthy relationship between cooperation and competition brings mutual benefits and shared wins. He reaffirmed Beijing’s opposition to harmful, unregulated, and irrational competition. Li pointed out that the competitive advantages of relevant Chinese industries were not achieved through government subsidies or protectionism, but rather resulted from deepened reforms, innovation-driven development, and the tireless efforts of the Chinese people.

He pledged China’s commitment to serving as a “cornerstone” for global stability, achieving high-quality development, maintaining economic growth, and creating a favorable business environment that ensures national treatment for foreign companies. He also stressed the need to enhance coordination with other countries to safeguard the stability and security of global production and supply chains. (End) S.L.Q / H.S.S