China has accused the United States of engaging in economic coercion and bullying, following U.S. criticism of what it terms “Chinese overcapacity.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the issue during a regular press briefing on Friday, highlighting China’s concerns over the U.S.’s intentions to curb China’s industrial development.
“The ‘Chinese overcapacity’ rhetoric is not a new concept,” Lin stated. “The United States previously labeled our export of high-quality, low-priced products as ‘overcapacity.’ Now, it seeks to attach the same label to our exports of new energy products.”
Lin pointed out that China’s exports of new energy vehicles constitute a much lower proportion of its production compared to countries like Germany, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. He suggested that the U.S.’s rhetoric is a strategic move aimed at securing a more advantageous competitive position and market share.
“Using ‘overcapacity’ as an excuse for trade protectionist measures does not solve problems,” Lin warned. “Instead, it undermines the stability of global industrial and supply chains and hinders the growth of emerging sectors.”
Lin urged the United States to abandon what he described as a “hegemonic mindset” and called for fair competition. “We urge the U.S. side to keep an open mind, embrace fair competition, and abide by international economic and trade rules to truly create a world-class, market-oriented, and law-based environment for trade and economic cooperation,” he said.
The remarks come amid escalating trade tensions between China and the U.S., with both nations grappling over market dominance in key industries such as new energy technologies.
Reference(s):
MOFA: U.S. 'Chinese overcapacity' rhetoric purely economic coercion
cgtn.com
