Chinese officials are defending policies that critics say fuel overcapacity and flood overseas markets with low-cost exports, according to Inside Retail Asia.
The report notes that despite mounting pressure from trading partners, China is unlikely to shift its export-led growth model in the near term. Exports remain a critical driver of economic expansion and employment, and Beijing maintains that its industrial policies align with market principles, arguing that the appeal of Chinese goods in global markets reflects their competitiveness rather than unfair practices.
Analysts suggest that any concessions during the upcoming talks would likely be limited, with Beijing prioritizing domestic consumption as a long-term goal while preserving the export engine for now. The retail sector, which depends on stable trade flows for consumer goods and supply chains, could face ripple effects depending on the outcome of the negotiations.