China has strongly criticized the United States' decision to launch a Section 301 trade investigation targeting 16 economies, including the Chinese mainland, calling it a "typical unilateral action" that disrupts global trade norms. The remarks came from a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce on March 13, 2026, amid escalating trade tensions.
The spokesperson emphasized that the World Trade Organization (WTO) has repeatedly ruled against such unilateral tariffs, stating, "The US cannot unilaterally define 'overcapacity' or impose restrictive measures outside multilateral frameworks." China urged Washington to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than investigations that bypass international rules.
Addressing the US claim of industrial overcapacity, the spokesperson argued that global supply chains require cross-border coordination: "If production were limited to domestic demand, international trade would cease to exist." The comments reflect Beijing's broader push to defend its export-driven economic model amid heightened scrutiny.
Additionally, China confirmed it is assessing a separate US probe into 60 economies over alleged "forced labor" import bans. While reserving the right to take countermeasures, Beijing reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its legal interests through WTO-compliant channels.
