BEIJING — China has expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the recent launch of a U.S. Section 301 investigation targeting China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries, the Chinese Commerce Ministry announced on Wednesday.
In an official statement, a ministry spokesperson criticized the U.S. petition, stating it is filled with unfounded accusations. The spokesperson emphasized that the petition misrepresents standard trade and investment activities as threats to U.S. national security and corporate interests. According to the ministry, these claims lack a factual basis and contradict fundamental economic principles.
“The accusations from the U.S. are entirely untenable,” the spokesperson asserted. “China’s industrial development stems from technological innovation and the proactive participation of enterprises in a competitive market environment.”
The ministry highlighted what it described as a double standard by the U.S. government. While accusing China of non-market practices, the U.S. has reportedly provided substantial discriminatory subsidies, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars, to its domestic industries. The statement pointed out that several U.S. studies have indicated the American shipbuilding industry’s loss of competitiveness is due to prolonged overprotection.
The spokesperson also mentioned that the World Trade Organization (WTO) has previously ruled that similar U.S. actions violated WTO regulations. The previous U.S. administration’s Section 301 investigations and the subsequent additional tariffs on Chinese goods were opposed by multiple WTO members.
China urged the United States to respect international facts and adhere to multilateral rules. “We call on the U.S. to immediately cease its erroneous practices and return to the rules-based multilateral trading system,” the ministry stated.
The Chinese government affirmed its commitment to closely monitor the investigation’s progress. “China will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend its rights and interests,” the spokesperson concluded.
The escalating trade tensions have raised concerns among global investors and business professionals about potential impacts on international trade and economic stability in the Asian region.
Reference(s):
China firmly opposes U.S. Section 301 investigation targeting China
cgtn.com
