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Ji Siqi

China’s proactive role in stabilising global energy and fertiliser markets amid the Strait of Hormuz crisis shows the country is a defender of global supply chains, rather than a disruptive force as “hyped” by the West, Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang said on Monday.
“The fact that Chinese manufacturing never falters or fails at critical moments fully proves that China is a participant, a builder and a defender of the global supply chain,” Ding said during the opening ceremony of the fourth China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing.
Ding defended China’s manufacturing machine against accusations of overcapacity, rejecting what he described as a Western narrative used to justify protectionist measures.
The country’s industrial development was not the result of government protection and subsidies, he added, but stemmed from reform and opening up, a comprehensive industrial base and a vast market.
“China never actively pursues a trade surplus,” Ding said. “The greatest obstacle to China increasing its imports does not lie within itself, but rather with certain countries that abuse export controls.”
Beijing posted a record-breaking trade surplus of nearly US$1.2 trillion in 2025 – sparking alarm in Europe and elsewhere over the fates of local industries. In the first five months of this year, the country’s trade surplus reached US$451.7 billion, according to Chinese customs data.
However, Ding said the hype around the “China shock” and claims that the country had squeezed the developmental opportunities of other countries did not reflect reality and were at odds with the principles of the international division of labour.
He also warned against adopting protectionist measures under the guise of green and low-carbon development. Ding’s comments came as global manufacturers struggle to adapt to the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism – a tariff system that entered its implementation phase in January and has caused havoc in the Chinese steel sector.
“A significant portion of the heightened risks facing supply chains is driven by man-made factors, particularly exclusive ‘small circles’,” he said.
“Friction is inevitable in international trade, but as long as there is consultation, equal treatment and mutual understanding and accommodation, there is no problem that cannot be resolved.”
Ding said Beijing remained willing to engage in dialogue and communication to prevent economic and trade issues from being politicised, weaponised or turned into national security concerns.
He also urged economies to maintain an open, interconnected and smoothly operating global energy market while promoting sustainable cooperation on critical minerals.
Organised by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, a semi-official trade body, this year’s CISCE will run from Monday to Friday, with over 1,200 firms taking part, more than a third of which are foreign businesses.


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Beijing warns against using the “China shock” narrative to justify protectionist measures and also calls for an open global energy market


Beijing warns against using the “China shock” narrative to justify protectionist measures and also calls for an open global energy market.


China defends role in global supply chains amid Strait of Hormuz crisis

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Beijing warns against using the “China shock” narrative to justify protectionist measures and also calls for an open global energy market

Beijing warns against using the “China shock” narrative to justify protectionist measures and also calls for an open global energy market