High-level opening up to boost China-ASEAN cooperation, says ASEAN-China Centre chief

"China will further advance high-level opening up and bring greater benefits to cooperation with ASEAN," Shi Zhongjun, secretary-general of the ASEAN-China Centre, said in an interview on the sidelines of an "Understanding China" dialogue session hosted by the center in Beijing on March 20, 2026.

He noted that China and ASEAN have remained each other's largest trading partners for six consecutive years, with trade continuing to grow steadily. As China expands its imports, its vast market is expected to create more opportunities for Southeast Asian countries.

Shi also highlighted that China's outbound investment, particularly to Southeast Asia, is generating economic and social benefits while helping drive technological development in the region.

Looking ahead, he emphasized that deeper cooperation in high-tech sectors will further enhance Southeast Asia's technological capabilities and contribute to broader economic and social development.