China News Brief – September 8, 2025
Key Developments:
Major Trade Law Overhaul in Review
China's National People's Congress began reviewing its first foreign trade law update since 2004. The draft enables firmer response mechanisms—like trade bans, countermeasures, export controls, and supply chain stabilizers—to potentially shield national sovereignty and economic security. ([Reuters]Reuters)Xi Champions BRICS Multilateralism in Virtual Summit
At the virtual BRICS Summit, Xi called on member countries to "defend multilateralism" and "win-win cooperation," promoting inclusivity, global governance reform, and a shared human future. ([Xinhua]Xinhua Newsenglish.cctv.com)
Implications
China is positioning itself as a defender of multilateralism through BRICS while reinforcing legal tools to protect against escalating trade tensions.
The proposed trade law signals regulatory tightening ahead. Firms should prepare for increased compliance complexities, potential regulatory restrictions, and a shift toward greater strategic autonomy in global commerce.
