China seeks fair environment for firms as SFIO recommends probe into Xiaomi’s India business

China on Thursday sought a “fair, just, transparent and non-discriminatory” environment for its companies operating in India after the country’s Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) recommended a detailed probe into Chinese smartphone major Xiaomi’s business practices and compliance with foreign investment laws.

The development comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India for the BRICS Summit this weekend, with the proposed probe adding another layer to the economic issues likely to figure in discussions against the backdrop of efforts by New Delhi and Beijing to stabilise bilateral ties.