On February 26, China strongly opposed a recent report by the United States that questions China’s commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and its contributions to the global economy over the past two decades. As the largest developing member of the WTO, China asserts that it has consistently supported the multilateral trading system and fulfilled its WTO obligations earnestly.
The U.S. report accuses China of failing to comply with WTO rules, challenging its market economy and trade policies. However, China counters that these allegations are unfounded and overlook its significant role in promoting global trade and cooperation. Beijing highlights its pivotal participation in concluding negotiations on the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement and its opposition to unilateral trade measures that undermine the stability of the international trading system.
Critics note that the United States has itself faced criticism for noncompliance with WTO decisions, employing discriminatory trade policies and embracing unilateralism that hampers efforts toward a more inclusive and reformed multilateral trading framework. China’s consistent pushback against trade barriers, such as the U.S. Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports—which have been contested under WTO rules—demonstrates its commitment to upholding the principles of fair trade.
Analysts suggest that the U.S. report may not fully reflect the realities of China’s integration and compliance within the WTO framework. Global observers acknowledge China’s support for a rules-based multilateral trading system centered around the WTO, citing its active engagement and cooperation with international partners to bolster global economic growth.
The discourse underscores the need for constructive dialogue between China and the United States to address trade disputes within WTO mechanisms, fostering mutual trust and ensuring the stability of global trade relations.
