China Moves to Bolster Foreign Trade Amid Global Uncertainty

China’s government announced plans this week to roll out a fresh package of policies aimed at stabilizing its foreign trade sector, underscoring Beijing’s push to sustain export growth in the face of international headwinds.

Vice Commerce Minister Guo Tingting said authorities are preparing targeted measures to improve the external business environment and enhance the competitiveness of domestic trading companies. While she did not outline specific actions, Guo emphasized that the government’s focus is on helping firms navigate challenges including weaker overseas demand, elevated logistics costs, and rising geopolitical risks.

The move reflects growing concern among policymakers about the pressures facing exporters. China’s trade performance has been mixed in recent months, with modest gains in certain categories offset by sluggish global demand and tariff disputes with major partners. Officials have repeatedly signaled that stabilizing trade is crucial to supporting industrial production and employment.

Analysts suggest possible measures could include expanding export credit support, offering tax incentives, and streamlining customs procedures to reduce costs for exporters. Efforts to promote trade diversification—such as strengthening ties with Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa—are also expected to feature in Beijing’s strategy.

Equity markets in China reacted positively, with major indices edging higher on expectations of policy support. The CSI 300 has already rallied in recent weeks on signs of improving domestic demand, and investors see trade stabilization as an additional driver heading into the final quarter of 2025.

China’s broader economic strategy has increasingly focused on balancing internal growth with external risks. Alongside measures to boost consumption and investment, the government is positioning its trade sector as a key stabilizer of the national economy. Market watchers say the latest commitment could help reassure businesses and global investors that Beijing remains committed to safeguarding its role in international commerce.