About our India/China news
Latest news on India-China relations, covering border disputes, trade, diplomacy, military tensions and the evolving geopolitical rivalry in Asia.
As the world's two most populous nations with a combined population exceeding 2.8 billion, India and China represent major economic powers with GDP figures of approximately £3.8 trillion and £15 trillion respectively. Their relationship remains one of the most consequential in global politics, shaped by a complex history of cooperation, competition, and occasional conflict along their 3,488-kilometre shared border.
The Himalayan frontier continues to be a flashpoint, with periodic standoffs following the deadly Galwan Valley clash in June 2020. Trade relations have undergone significant shifts, with bilateral trade reaching approximately £123 billion in 2024, though India maintains concerns about its £55 billion trade deficit with China. Diplomatic engagements between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi have been limited, reflecting persistent tensions despite ongoing dialogue at ministerial levels.
Beyond politics, cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts remain important aspects of the relationship. Educational partnerships between Indian and Chinese universities have grown, with thousands of students crossing borders annually. Tourism between the nations has rebounded since 2023, with popular destinations including the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall attracting visitors despite geopolitical tensions.
The historical context of India-China relations stretches back to ancient silk road connections and Buddhist exchanges. The modern relationship has been defined by the 1962 border war, followed by decades of cautious normalisation. The 21st century has seen both countries emerge as major economic and political powers, competing for influence across Asia, Africa, and beyond, particularly within forums like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
Staying informed about India-China relations is essential for understanding Asia's evolving geopolitical landscape. This NewsNow feed provides comprehensive coverage from reliable sources, including analyses of strategic competition, economic interdependence, and diplomatic developments between these two Asian giants, offering crucial insights for policymakers, businesses, and citizens alike.