China calls for global supply chain cooperation amid turmoil, Trump tariff threats

China doubled down on efforts for global cooperation to maintain the operation of international supply chains hours after US president-elect Donald Trump pushed his “America First” agenda by upping his tariff threats against Chinese imports.

“The world has entered a new period of turmoil and change, and the fragmentation of the world economy has intensified,” he said in a keynote speech.

Han encouraged business leaders to build consensus and strengthen links to contribute to maintaining the stability of the global supply chains, while also “injecting more certainty and positive energy” into the recovery of the global economy.

China is the world’s top merchandise exporter with massive manufacturing capability, accounting for around 15 per cent of the global trade volume.

As the world’s second largest consumer market, it also draws huge investment from major multinational companies.