China names new trade envoy amid U.S. tariff tensions
Li, who holds law degrees from Peking University and the University of Hamburg in Germany, will replace Wang Shouwen.
KATHMANDU: China has appointed a new top trade envoy as global concerns mount over the United States’ increasing tariffs and trade pressure, which officials say are seriously impacting the global economic system.
Li Chenggang, a seasoned diplomat and former Assistant Commerce Minister, has been named China’s Vice Commerce Minister and Representative for International Trade Negotiations, according to a statement issued by Beijing’s Ministry of Human Resources.
Li, who holds law degrees from Peking University and the University of Hamburg in Germany, will replace Wang Shouwen.
Wang notably played a key role in the 2020 trade talks between China and the United States.
Li’s appointment comes at a critical time, as tensions escalate with Washington refusing to back down from the heavy tariffs imposed on Chinese goods during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s tenure. These measures had triggered a prolonged trade war, with Beijing maintaining a firm stance.
Facing mounting pressure on its already slowing economy, China is preparing for the possible fallout of shrinking exports — a major source of national revenue.
On Wednesday, Beijing reported a 5.4% year-on-year GDP growth for the January to March quarter, exceeding expectations. However, analysts warn this growth reflects the period before the U.S. raised tariffs from 10% to as high as 145%.
Chinese officials have voiced strong concerns, warning that the latest tariff hikes from the Trump administration could bring deeper economic pain in the coming months.
Both Washington and Beijing have signaled openness to dialogue, yet no concrete steps have been taken so far. If talks resume, 58-year-old Li is expected to play a central role. He previously served as China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva and has held several senior roles within the Ministry of Commerce.
Li’s appointment is seen as a strategic signal of Beijing’s readiness to confront growing trade headwinds and assert its position on the global stage.
