She suggested that the reduction of tariffs could extend beyond India to the European Union, potentially fostering more bilateral and plurilateral trade agreements.

Georgieva urged for a reduction in trade uncertainties between the U.S. and China, the world's two largest economies.

The IMF chief highlighted that trade imbalances contribute to rising tensions, stating that perceptions of unfairness can undermine the multilateral trading system.

During an event in Washington on April 17, 2025, Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF, called for a fairer global trade system, highlighting the ongoing trade grievances between the U.S. and China.

While refraining from directly criticizing U.S. tariffs under President Trump, she noted that increasing tariffs and trade barriers contribute to negative perceptions of global trade.

Expressing hope for ongoing bilateral discussions, she believes these could lead to broader actions aimed at reducing trade barriers, ultimately benefiting the global economy.

Georgieva acknowledged that both nations have trade complaints, with the U.S. focusing on China's intellectual property practices and non-tariff barriers, while China seeks greater engagement from the U.S. to stabilize economic relations.

She emphasized that resolving these trade issues is crucial for the stability of the global economy.

Georgieva stressed the importance of both nations reducing uncertainty and reaching a fair, rules-based trading system.

Georgieva praised India's recent initiative to reduce trade barriers, indicating it would positively impact the country's economic growth prospects.

She noted that the U.S. has concerns over China's practices related to intellectual property and non-tariff barriers, while China seeks more engagement from the U.S.

Georgieva's comments come ahead of the upcoming IMF and World Bank spring meetings, where these trade issues are likely to be a focal point.