Chinese Vice Premier calls for improved business environment at ports to boost vitality

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng on Thursday stressed the importance of cross-border trade facilitation, reaffirming China's unwavering commitment to further opening-up, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at the launch of a national campaign to promote cross-border trade facilitation. He stated that China will drive development through open cooperation and accelerate the construction of a high-standard open economic system.

He stressed the importance of organizing and implementing the campaign effectively, urging a swift replication and nationwide rollout of proven practices and successful measures.

In light of the recent escalation of U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, he called for a goal-oriented and problem-solving approach, with a focus on meeting enterprise needs, strengthening policy support and tackling real-world challenges.

He emphasized the need to foster new drivers of foreign trade growth and improve the business environment at ports to stimulate vitality, buffer against external shocks and stabilize economic performance.

He also stressed the need to deepen international engagement, aligning with global rules and mechanisms, and facilitating trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges to expand China's global partnerships. He urged to advance smart customs development and push forward the "Smart Customs, Strong Nation" initiative to better support the country's broader development goals.