Higher tariffs and trade barriers create "a no-win situation for everyone," warned Oliver Oehms, executive director of the German Chamber of Commerce in North China, during the ongoing China International Supply Chain Expo 2025 in Beijing. The remarks come as global businesses seek clarity on cross-border trade policies amid rising economic uncertainties.
Oehms emphasized the interconnected nature of modern supply chains during his interview with CGTN, stating that "artificial barriers disrupt not just bilateral trade but entire production networks." The expo, running from Wednesday to Sunday, has drawn over 1,500 enterprises from 50 countries and regions to discuss sustainable industrial collaboration.
The German business representative highlighted China's role as a critical link in global manufacturing, noting that 40% of chamber members plan to expand investments in the Chinese mainland's renewable energy and digital infrastructure sectors. However, he cautioned that protectionist measures could delay technological innovation and increase costs for consumers worldwide.
Analysts suggest the expo serves as a strategic platform for addressing supply chain resilience, particularly as Southeast Asian markets gain prominence in electronics and green technology sectors. The event features specialized forums on smart manufacturing and cross-border logistics, attracting policymakers and Fortune 500 executives alike.
