The statement points out risks to the world economy from trade tensions without directly referring to the trade dispute between the US and China.

It omitted any mention of the Sino-US trade war and its possible effect on global economic growth. The statement simply confirmed that escalation of trade and geopolitical tensions are challenging the global economy and called on countries to continue to address these risks and stand ready to take further action.

The statement contained no commitment by G20 members to combat protectionism. The conference’s outcome was allegedly influenced by pressure from the US to prevent any barriers to its increasing taxes on Chinese goods.