China Offers to Boost Indian Imports Amid Looming US Tariffs

Ahead of an expected tariff announcement from the United States, China has expressed its willingness to import more Indian products to address the trade imbalance. Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, stated that Beijing is ready to strengthen practical trade cooperation with India.

“We are willing to work with the Indian side to strengthen practical cooperation in trade and other areas, and to import more Indian products that are well-suited to the Chinese market,” Xu said in a statement reported by Global Times on Monday.

India-China Trade Snapshot

According to India’s Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade stood at $101.7 billion in 2023–24, with India experiencing a significant trade deficit. India’s key exports to China include:

Petroleum oil

Iron ore

Marine products

Vegetable oil

These accounted for around $16.6 billion in exports.

Remarks Coincide with 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations

The ambassador’s comments were made as part of the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two Asian giants. His remarks also come at a delicate moment as US President Donald Trump prepares to announce new reciprocal tariffs, potentially targeting both China and India for what he has called “unfair trade practices.”

India Navigates Between China and the US

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been maintaining strong ties with both the U.S. and China. In a podcast aired in March, Modi praised Trump and indicated ongoing efforts to align with Washington’s economic concerns.

At the same time, Modi emphasized cooperation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting efforts to restore normalcy at the border following the deadly 2020 Himalayan clashes, which were the most violent in over four decades.

Recent Diplomatic Thaw Between India and China

Relations had soured after the 2020 border incident, prompting India to restrict Chinese investments and block tech companies. However, there are signs of renewed engagement:

Modi and Xi met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in 2024.

Both leaders agreed to restart direct flights, signaling a move toward normalization.

This was their first significant interaction since 2019.

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