China’s role in global trade has shifted significantly. In recent years, on a regional basis, Southeast Asia has surpassed it to become the largest trading partner. This shift has implications for China’s economic strategies and its international relationships,

By Laurie Chen, Michael Martina BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -When the leaders of some of the world's largest companies flocked to Beijing for a business forum last month, their main purpose was a coveted meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.