China has urged the Group of Seven (G7) nations to respect the principles of free trade and international law, warning that attempts to impose exclusive economic rules could further destabilize the global economy.
The remarks came after the G7 issued new trade guidelines aimed at restricting technology transfers and investments related to strategic industries, a move Beijing criticized as protectionist and politically motivated.
Chinese officials reaffirmed the country’s commitment to an open, multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework and called on major economies to avoid creating parallel mechanisms that fragment global commerce.
Beijing’s Response to G7 Economic Policies
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the G7’s recent initiatives on supply chain coordination and technology controls “go against the spirit of openness and cooperation.”
She noted that the formulation of small-group rules by exclusive blocs “undermines global confidence in fair competition and risks politicizing international trade.”
China’s statement follows the G7’s latest announcement of a “critical supply chain alliance,” which seeks to reduce reliance on imports from specific countries. Beijing has described such measures as attempts to “weaponize” economic dependencies.
“The G7 should focus on stabilizing global growth instead of dividing the international market with restrictive frameworks,” Mao said. “True economic security comes from cooperation, not confrontation.”
Emphasis on Multilateralism and Fair Competition
China’s position highlights its broader diplomatic strategy to safeguard the global trading system from what it sees as unilateral or discriminatory actions by advanced economies.
Beijing has consistently promoted WTO-centered reforms to ensure developing nations have a stronger voice in setting trade standards.
Analysts say China’s stance reflects growing concern that new industrial alliances and technology restrictions could fragment global supply chains.
“The world economy relies on interconnected production networks, and artificial barriers only raise costs and create uncertainty,” said Zhao Hong, a trade policy researcher at the University of International Business and Economics.
He added that China’s advocacy for multilateralism aligns with the interests of many developing economies that depend on open markets for growth.
Cooperation Instead of Division
Chinese officials also reiterated that major economies should seek “constructive competition” instead of isolating partners through exclusive rules.
The Ministry of Commerce called on G7 members to work together on global challenges such as climate change, sustainable infrastructure, and digital governance rather than resorting to restrictive economic blocs.
In recent months, China has intensified engagement with countries in the Global South, expanding cooperation through forums such as BRICS+, ASEAN+3, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
These platforms emphasize equal participation and transparent governance, in contrast to selective alliances that exclude emerging economies.
“China’s approach reflects the reality that global development must be inclusive,” said Li Cheng, senior economist at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. “No single group should dictate trade norms for the entire world.”
Outlook: Preserving Global Trade Stability
Experts note that the debate over trade governance will shape international economic relations in the coming years.
As supply chains evolve under new geopolitical pressures, China’s call for openness is aimed at preventing the fragmentation of global markets and ensuring that innovation and investment remain accessible to all participants.
With its position as the world’s largest trading nation, Beijing’s push for multilateral coordination and reform of global institutions is expected to remain central to its diplomatic agenda.
Analysts say maintaining dialogue with developed economies while strengthening ties across Asia, Africa, and Latin America could help preserve a balanced and stable international trade order.