China has strongly criticized the United States for initiating a trade investigation targeting its maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries, highlighting escalating tensions between the two economic powers. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce on Friday called the U.S. move a "misguided politicization of trade issues" and urged Washington to adhere to international economic norms.
The rebuke followed the U.S. Trade Representative's announcement on Thursday of a Section 301 investigation into alleged unfair practices in China's maritime sector. Beijing accused the U.S. of violating World Trade Organization (WTO) principles and undermining market competition. "The U.S. should immediately correct its wrong practices to avoid further damaging bilateral trade relations," the ministry stated.
Analysts suggest the investigation could strain already fragile U.S.-China economic ties, with potential ramifications for global supply chains and maritime trade routes. The Chinese mainland remains the world's largest shipbuilder, making the sector a strategic priority.
Observers warn that retaliatory measures or tariffs could emerge if tensions escalate, urging stakeholders to monitor developments. The Ministry of Commerce reiterated its commitment to defending Chinese enterprises' rights and maintaining a rules-based multilateral trading system.
