China’s Xi urges Asian nations to keep supply chains stable, work together during ‘turbulent’ times

Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump met on October 30, 2025, in South Korea ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting. This meeting came a day after the two leaders secured a deal for the rollback of U.S. tariffs. President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of supporting free trade and maintaining supply chain stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

During the APEC Economic Leaders’ meeting, Xi called for unity in turbulent times, emphasizing the need for cooperation among Asia-Pacific countries. The agreement between China and the U.S. included concessions on tariffs, export controls, and the export of rare earths. While President Trump returned to the U.S. after the meeting, President Xi remained in South Korea for the summit.

In his speech at the APEC summit, Xi outlined five suggestions for cooperation: safeguarding the multilateral trading system, creating an open economic environment, maintaining supply chain stability, promoting green and digital trade, and fostering inclusive development. He stressed the importance of extending the supply chain and working together to address global challenges.

Despite the ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, Chinese companies have significantly expanded their manufacturing capabilities over the past two decades. China now accounts for approximately 27% of global manufacturing output, with factories spreading to the Asia-Pacific region to meet local demand.

President Trump’s focus on reshoring manufacturing to the U.S. has led to new tariffs aimed at reducing transshipments of Chinese goods. However, China has continued to strengthen its trade relationships with countries in the Asia-Pacific region, with the Association of Southeast Asian Countries becoming China’s largest trading partner.

Xi reassured the international community that China would continue to open up its market to foreign businesses, providing new opportunities for the Asia-Pacific region and the world. Chinese outbound investments in Asia have increased, with deals in sectors such as data centers and battery materials.

Overall, the meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump highlighted the complexities of global trade relations and the importance of cooperation in addressing economic challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. As China continues to expand its presence in the global economy, maintaining stable supply chains and promoting free trade will be crucial for sustainable economic growth.