Xi Jinping begins key tour of Southeast Asia to strengthen alliances against US tariff pressure

From Hanoi, the first stop on his trip, Xi Jinping set the tone for his visit in an article published in Nhan Dan, the official newspaper of the Communist Party of Vietnam. In it, the Chinese leader stated that "There are no winners in trade and tariff wars, and protectionism is not going to work."He also stressed ideological ties, describing China and Vietnam as "Friendly socialist neighbors with shared ideals and beliefs", and called for intensified bilateral cooperation, especially in industrial and supply chains, as well as in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and the green economy.

The trip comes at a critical time. Recently, US President Donald Trump significantly raised tariffs on Chinese goods (up to 145%, according to the original source), although he offered a temporary 90-day respite to other Asian countries to negotiate possible concessions. Vietnam, for example, faces the threat of a 46% US tariff starting in July, which has intensified its efforts to reach agreements with Washington.

In this scenario, Xi Jinping seeks to position China as a more predictable and stable trading partner in the face of what is perceived as the volatility of US policies under Trump.

"It's an attempt by Xi to forge alliances that will allow him to retaliate against the United States in the trade war."

Regional impact and strategic projects

Southeast Asian countries are at a crossroads. They are vital routes for Chinese exports, partly destined for the US market, but at the same time they feel pressure to diversify their trade ties and reduce their excessive dependence on Beijing or Washington.

During Xi's visit to Vietnam, the signing of nearly 40 bilateral agreements covering various areas is expected. Meanwhile, Malaysia and Cambodia, which also face US tariffs of 24% and 49% respectively, are closely monitoring diplomatic moves and seeking ways to mitigate the economic impact.

Infrastructure is another pillar of the tour. Vietnam has already preliminarily agreed to use Chinese loans to develop new railway lines connecting the two countries, although the final financial details are yet to be finalized. Beijing is also interested in obtaining Vietnamese approval for its commercial aircraft. COMAC and in strengthening its influence in regional megaprojects such as the potential Thailand's interoceanic canal and the ambitious Pan-Asian railway network.

International analysis and reactions

International policy experts interpret this tour as a key element in China's strategy to counter the US-led attempt at isolation. "It's an attempt by Xi to forge alliances that will allow him to retaliate against the United States in the trade war.", said Lynette Ong, a professor of Chinese politics at the University of Toronto.

At the same time, other powers such as the European Union have also intensified their diplomatic contacts with China, with a bilateral summit scheduled for next July in Beijing.

Xi Jinping's visit to Southeast Asia marks a pivotal moment in the reshaping of global trade dynamics and underscores China's efforts to strengthen ties with its neighbors amid an increasingly turbulent geopolitical landscape.