China vows to boost Southeast Asia imports as growth slows

ASEAN countries seek to boost trade ties as Sino-U.S. tensions rise

The China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning, China: Southeast Asian traders brought durian and teak, while Chinese companies showed off heavy machinery and electric vehicles. (Photo provided by the China-ASEAN Expo)

CK Tan, Nikkei staff writer

September 18, 2023 14:20 JST

NANNING, China -- China has pledged to increase purchases from Southeast Asian neighbors as overall trade growth slows due to weakened demand globally and domestically.

"China is ready to import more competitive and distinctive products from ASEAN countries," Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Sunday at a business forum attended by counterparts from the region.