He Lifeng on World Trade Organization
TL;DR
He Lifeng strongly advocates for multilateral trade and opposes protectionism, championing the WTO framework.
Key Points
He Lifeng asserted that the world must not revert to the "law of the jungle" in trade matters as of January 2025.
He delivered a special address at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2026, emphasizing open cooperation.
He characterized China's trade surplus as an operational accident during a discussion regarding trade balance.
Summary
He Lifeng, in his capacity as Vice Premier, has taken a firm public stance against economic nationalism and protectionist measures, framing them as detrimental to global stability. He explicitly warned international leaders that the world cannot revert to the "law of the jungle," emphasizing the need to uphold the multilateral trading system embodied by the World Trade Organization. His core argument centers on the principle that rules-based international trade offers the best path for shared prosperity, rather than unilateral actions or trade barriers.
His pronouncements, often delivered at high-profile international forums, serve to reinforce China's official commitment to an open global economy, albeit one that he has indicated must also address global challenges like climate change. The Vice Premier has also worked to contextualize domestic economic data, such as addressing trade surpluses as merely operational accidents rather than systemic issues driving protectionist concerns abroad. This position aligns his public diplomacy with the broader state objective of ensuring stable international trade relations.
Key Quotes
China firmly supports the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO and opposes unilateralism and protectionism, He said.
Since joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), China has not sought special treatment in WTO negotiations, He noted, adding that the country firmly upholds the WTO's long-standing trade organization principles and seeks cooperation to solve development challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
He Lifeng is a strong proponent of the multilateral trading system, often speaking out against protectionism. He views adherence to international rules, rather than unilateralism, as essential for global economic health.
The Vice Premier warned international bodies that the world must not revert to the 'law of the jungle' regarding trade. He Lifeng stressed the importance of upholding the existing multilateral framework against rising protectionist tendencies.
Yes, He Lifeng has addressed concerns about China's trade surplus, stating that it should be viewed as an operational accident. This statement appears intended to preempt criticism that fuels protectionist policies.
Sources8
China's Vice Premier Tells Davos World Cannot Revert to Law of the Jungle
Vice Premier He Lifeng calls for global cooperation at WEF in Davos
China's He Lifeng Warns Against Protectionism at Davos, Cites Risks of 'Law of the Jungle'
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng gives a special address at WEF
Trade Balance: He Lifeng Calls Surplus an 'Operational Accident'
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng said that the world must not revert to the law of the jungle
China's Message in Davos Draws Praise
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng gives a special address at WEF
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.