Experts say the Chinese president's upcoming visits to Malaysia, as well as reportedly Vietnam and Cambodia, could work in Beijing’s favour, but host countries must exercise caution amid the US-China rivalry.

President Xi Jinping will visit three Southeast Asian countries next week, as China steps up efforts to court partners to buffer the economy against an escalating trade war with the US.

Foreign ministry confirms the Chinese leader will tour Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia in what will be his first foreign visits of the year.