China has firmly opposed recent US moves to initiate trade investigations against 16 trading partners, including the Chinese mainland, denouncing the actions as politically motivated manipulation. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on March 12, 2026 that Beijing "consistently opposes unilateral tariff measures" disguised as solutions to alleged industrial overcapacity.
The remarks follow reports that Washington plans to scrutinize sectors including renewable energy and electric vehicles. "Labeling normal market competition as 'overcapacity' violates WTO principles and harms global supply chains," Guo emphasized during his weekly briefing.
Analysts suggest the dispute could impact upcoming APEC trade discussions scheduled for April 2026. With the Chinese mainland accounting for 35% of global clean technology exports, business leaders warn prolonged tensions might disrupt decarbonization efforts worldwide.
This development occurs as Southeast Asian nations prepare to mediate dialogue at the APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Vietnam. Investors are closely monitoring semiconductor and rare earth markets, where cross-strait collaboration remains crucial for tech supply chains.
