India pushes China for better market access, trade balance

India pressed China for improved market access, predictable supply chains, and measures to reduce their significant trade imbalance during a high-level meeting. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi that these issues "need to be addressed" as the two countries seek to stabilize relations following years of border disputes.

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These are important issues “that need to be addressed”.

Jaishankar noted the resumption of direct flights, easier visa rules, the revival of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, and restored border trade as positive signs of normalizing ties. This push for stability gains importance against the backdrop of the Middle East conflict and unpredictable US trade policies, which are prompting both New Delhi and Beijing to seek ways to reduce bilateral friction and diversify their strategic and economic options.

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Facilitating both official and people-to-people exchanges merit our attention.

India had tightened scrutiny on imports from border-sharing nations in April 2020, largely due to deteriorating relations with China, which led to a deadly clash in the Himalayas later that year. However, earlier in 2026, New Delhi eased these rules to support domestic manufacturing, indicating a shift towards improving economic ties with its major neighbor and geopolitical rival. India is set to host the BRICS summit this year, a grouping that includes China, and Jaishankar acknowledged China's support for BRICS activities during India's chairmanship, emphasizing the need for facilitated exchanges and meetings based on mutual priorities.

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Let me take the opportunity to appreciate the support that China has given to various BRICS activities and initiatives during our chairship.