China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang rejected international criticism of the country’s trade practices during the opening ceremony of the 9th China International Import Expo in Shanghai on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Addressing an audience of global executives, Ding characterized concerns regarding China’s manufacturing dominance as “completely unfounded,” according to hongkongfp.com. He also dismissed the “so-called ‘China squeeze’ theory” as a narrative hyped by certain institutions and media outlets.
The event, which has run annually since 2018, serves as a platform for Beijing to frame itself as a massive, open consumer market rather than merely a global production hub. More than 4,000 foreign companies are participating this year to explore entry into the Chinese market, even as tensions persist over the nation’s significant trade surpluses with the United States and the European Union.
Ding Xuexiang Defends Trade Surplus and Industrial Policy
During his address, Ding dismissed concerns regarding the so-called China squeeze theory as completely unfounded.
Bloomberg.com reported that Ding noted China is the primary export destination for approximately 80 countries. He added that China’s imports grew by 22% in the year through September, a rate he stated exceeded those of the U.S. and Europe. Furthermore, Ding stated that foreign companies accounted for 27% of China’s total exports and 16% of its trade surplus in 2025, suggesting that the benefits of the current trade structure are shared by international partners. “The surplus is in China, but the benefits are shared by all parties,” he said.
Western Export Controls Drive Trade Imbalances
The Chinese official addressed the widening trade imbalances by pointing to external factors, specifically export controls imposed by Western nations. Ding asserted that Beijing has never deliberately sought a trade surplus and claimed that China would increase its intake of foreign goods if not for security-based restrictions on cutting-edge technology.
“There are many products we would like to import but cannot obtain because we are not allowed to buy them,” Ding stated, referencing long-standing U.S. export curbs on advanced technology.
Logistics and Market Access at the Shanghai Expo
While official discourse focused on macro-economic policy, private firms at the expo highlighted the logistical challenges and opportunities of the current environment. FedEx, which has operated in China for over four decades, showcased its integration of AI-powered logistics to help businesses manage complex trade environments. Poh-Yian Koh, president of FedEx China, stated that as AI, digitization, and evolving supply chains reshape commerce, businesses require trusted partners that provide connectivity, visibility, and resilience. According to data from the General Administration of Customs of China, the nation’s total goods trade reached 39.94 trillion yuan in the first three quarters of 2026, an 18.8% increase year-on-year.
Other sectors are also seeking to capitalize on the import-focused nature of the fair. For wine importers looking to move beyond familiar varieties, Moldova is showcasing a range of indigenous options, including Fetească Albă, Rară Neagră, Viorica, Floricica, Codrinschi, and Riton, alongside distinctive blends. These offerings highlight a winemaking history that stretches back 7,000 years. Their national stand is scheduled to operate in Hall 5 from November 10 to 12, with a dedicated indigenous varieties masterclass for industry professionals taking place on November 11, between 13:15-14:45.
Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang Defends China Trade Surplus
Why does China believe its trade surplus is misunderstood?
Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang argued that China’s position in global supply chains and its comparative advantages naturally lead to a surplus, which he contends benefits all parties involved, including the foreign firms operating within Chinese borders.
What specific trade barriers did the Vice Premier highlight?
Ding pointed to national security-based restrictions imposed by governments, particularly the United States, which limit the ability of Chinese firms to purchase cutting-edge technologies from abroad.
When does the next phase of the expo conclude for industry participants?
While the opening ceremony occurred on November 5, various sector-specific events, such as the Moldovan wine masterclass, are scheduled to continue through November 12.