China market access for Indian goods is back in the spotlight following an assertive call by Beijing to not only increase Indian exports but also encourage a non-discriminatory environment for Chinese companies operating in India. This development comes against the backdrop of a soaring bilateral trade imbalance, with India’s trade deficit with China reaching $99.2 billion in FY24.
In his first interaction with Indian media, Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong emphasized China’s willingness to import more high-quality Indian goods. He cited products such as chili peppers, cotton yarn, and iron ore—sectors that have shown significant export growth—as examples of how Indian businesses can further penetrate the Chinese market. Xu encouraged Indian firms to showcase their offerings at platforms like the China International Import Expo, promoting a broader and more diverse trade exchange.
However, China’s gesture was not without conditions. Xu urged New Delhi to foster a fair and transparent business environment for Chinese investors and companies. He pointed out that visa delays, regulatory hurdles, and negative public sentiment are undermining mutual economic growth. China, he claimed, has already taken steps to ease visa processes and has issued over 85,000 visas to Indians this year, calling for a reciprocal move from the Indian side.
Taking a dig at global trade policies, Xu criticized the United States’ unilateral tariff impositions, describing them as “destabilizing and protectionist.” He framed China and India as leaders of the Global South who must work together to defend multilateralism and resist such protectionist trends.
On the geopolitical front, Xu addressed concerns over border tensions and emphasized the importance of not letting territorial disputes overshadow economic cooperation. Referring to the positive tone from the Modi-Xi meeting in Kazan, he advocated for stronger confidence-building measures, suggesting that both nations must separate military stand-offs from economic dialogue to ensure stability.
Regarding India’s concerns about China’s hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra River, Xu reassured that these initiatives are strictly for energy generation and not aimed at diverting water flow. He also dismissed allegations that China restricts tech exports or the movement of skilled professionals to India.
Xu highlighted the need to revive journalist exchange programs and promote balanced media narratives to reduce mistrust. He urged for the easing of bureaucratic roadblocks and signaled that Prime Minister Modi’s attendance at the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit could be a key step in deepening bilateral cooperation.
Ultimately, this new posture by Beijing underlines a strategic shift—China market access for Indian goods could become a cornerstone for rebalancing a relationship often marred by suspicion and imbalance. Xu’s message is clear: economic bridges must be strengthened, and mutual respect reinstated if the two Asian giants are to lead the Global South into a more stable and prosperous future.
