Ding Xuexiang calls for global openness in services trade

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called for increased global openness, cooperation, and liberalization within the services sector. Speaking at the 2026 Global Trade in Services Summit in Beijing, Ding characterized the advancement of services trade as both a Chinese priority and a global necessity.

Ding emphasized the need to reduce barriers to the cross-border movement of production factors to ensure fair and inclusive long-term development. He also advocated for enhanced international cooperation regarding digital and intelligent technologies, specifically mentioning artificial intelligence and the strengthening of global digital infrastructure connectivity to drive momentum in global trade.

The summit was a collaborative event hosted by the Beijing municipal government, China’s Ministry of Commerce, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).