The Hindu Editorial Analysis
2 May 2025
China’s strategic push — Asia ties amid tariff tensions
(Source – The Hindu, National Edition – Page No. – 08)
Topic: GS 2: India and its neighborhood- relations
Context
- Beijing’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia could complicate U.S. efforts to build a coalition aimed at economically isolating or deterring China.
Introduction
- Xi Jinping toured Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia (April 14-18, 2025) to position China as a trusted partner amid U.S. tariffs and trade pressures.
- Following significant tariffs imposed during the Trump era, China is pivoting towards strengthening ties with key Southeast Asian countries.
- The visit aligns with China’s strategy to reduce external economic pressures, maintain regional stability, and affirm China’s leadership in the Indo-Pacific.
China’s Strategy: Southeast Asia as Buffer and Bridge
- China seeks to shield itself from escalating U.S. trade restrictions, including tariffs, export controls, tech bans, and financial decoupling.
- Southeast Asia offers alternative trade routes, manufacturing options, and diplomatic allies to counteract U.S. containment strategies.
Tariff Impact & China’s Response by Country
| Country | Tariff Impact (Trump era) | China’s Response |
|---|---|---|
| Cambodia | Up to 59% (10% + 49%) | Largest investor and trade partner; supports business & multilateralism |
| Vietnam | 46% | Signed 45 cooperation agreements focusing on economy and diplomacy |
| Malaysia | 24% | Over 30 agreements on digital economy, AI, agriculture, infrastructure |
Highlights of Xi’s Visits and Agreements
- Vietnam: 45 cooperation agreements signed strengthening economic and diplomatic ties.
- Malaysia: 30+ agreements focusing on technology, agriculture, and infrastructure.
- Cambodia: First visit since 2016; China reaffirmed its status as biggest investor, with trade exceeding $15 billion in 2024.
- Example: Funan Techo Canal project demonstrates China’s ongoing economic commitments while the U.S. leans towards protectionism.
Projecting a Contrast: China vs U.S.
- Ideology & Norms: China promotes non-interference and economic engagement versus U.S. interventionism and ideological rigidity.
- Regional Resonance: Strong appeal in Cambodia (close political ally); moderate influence in Malaysia (balancing foreign policies).
- Soft Power: Xi promotes South China Sea code of conduct, Belt and Road infrastructure, cultural ties as an alternative regional leadership model.
- Timing: China offers steady engagement with tangible outcomes, contrasting U.S.’s episodic, reactive approach.
- U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy: Seen as security-centered and anti-China; China focuses on economic diplomacy.
- Intra-ASEAN Dynamics: Xi strengthens ties with Vietnam (reassurance on South China Sea) and Malaysia (peaceful dispute resolution, BRI projects).
Economic Diplomacy: U.S. vs China
- U.S. emphasizes security alliances (AUKUS, Quad), but China centers on investment and trade deals.
- U.S.’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework criticized for limited market access compared to China’s active offers.
The Bigger Picture
- China’s role as an indispensable economic partner risks undermining U.S. attempts to economically isolate it.
- Growing economic interdependence between Southeast Asia and China challenges Washington’s ability to counter China effectively.
- Xi’s tour is a strategic move to cement Chinese influence during a time of global geopolitical shifts.
- This diplomatic push shapes regional alliances, economic integration, and governance norms for the long term.
Conclusion
- The tour bolsters Xi’s domestic political standing, signaling China’s resilience amid Western pressure.
- Warm receptions, economic deals, and strategic talks strengthen Xi’s authority and counter negative narratives about China’s economy and diplomacy.
- It reassures Southeast Asia and the Global South of China’s reliability, though regional responses to Beijing’s outreach remain uncertain.