Xi Jinping is in Southeast Asia to build bonds with countries that also face U.S. tariffs and have come under pressure from Washington to curb the transshipment of Chinese goods.

During Trump's first term, tariffs on China were a big win for Vietnam, especially in cities like Haiphong. Now the country's future isn't so clear.

Xi starts a three-nation tour of Southeast Asia this week, beginning his state visits with Vietnam from April 14 to 15. The trip comes with an aim to consolidate economic ties with some of China's closest neighbours at a time when the world's top two economies are locked in a tariff tussle.