Chinese Premier Li Qiang surprised the global trade community during a UN General Assembly event, announcing that China will no longer seek new special and differential treatment (SDT) in ongoing or future World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations. This landmark move underscores China’s commitment to shoulder more responsibility in global trade governance.
What is SDT?
SDT allows developing WTO members extra time, flexibility, or assistance when implementing trade commitments. Of the WTO’s 166 members, 22 more are seeking membership, and current agreements include 157 SDT provisions—nine reserved solely for least-developed members.
China’s SDT Reform in Action
Over recent years, China has ramped up its role in trade liberalization. Since December 2024, it has imposed zero tariffs on all products from least-developed countries with diplomatic ties, and in June 2025 pledged the same treatment to 53 African nations. By forgoing SDT on issues from services regulation to vaccine IP waivers, Beijing has already helped accelerate key WTO deals.
Why This Matters
Experts stress that China’s decision doesn’t strip existing SDT rights or its developing country status—it simply means China won’t push for new SDT carve-outs. “China’s per capita GDP still lags far behind developed economies,” notes Professor Cui Fan, yet the move signals a readiness to match its economic weight with global responsibilities.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala welcomed the announcement as a boost for multilateral reform, while China’s trade representatives say it models how rapidly growing economies can balance domestic needs with a fairer international system.
China’s shift is more than policy jargon—it’s a story of a rising power redefining its role, nudging a rules-based order toward greater equity and effectiveness.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
