China's Ministry of Commerce demanded on Monday that the United States correct its incorrect actions and completely eliminate the unilateral tariff measures imposed under the pretext of so-called forced labor.
Reaction to Tariff Imposition
These statements were made by a ministry representative in response to media inquiries regarding the recent imposition of additional Section 301 tariffs by the US on 60 economies, including China, following an investigation related to 'forced labor.'
The representative emphasized that China consistently opposes forced labor and has developed comprehensive legislation and regulatory frameworks in this area, stating the country's determination to prevent and combat forced labor practices. In contrast, the representative noted that the United States has yet to ratify the 1930 Forced Labour Convention and has long manipulated the issue of 'forced labor.'
Position on Trade Disputes
This time, the United States initiated another Section 301 investigation and imposed unilateral tariffs under the pretext of 'forced labor.' The Chinese representative called this a typical act of unilateralism and protectionism, which China firmly opposes.
The US reiterated its intention to use Section 301 tariffs as a replacement for tariffs previously imposed under the Emergency Economic Powers Act, which were deemed invalid, as well as as a replacement for the Section 122 surcharge. During economic and trade consultations between China and the US, the United States gave a clear promise that any additional substitute tariffs on Chinese goods would not exceed 20%.
Current Situation and Next Steps
Currently, the substitute additional tariffs imposed by the United States on Chinese goods amount to 12.5%, while China's countermeasures against the first round of so-called fentanyl tariffs and reciprocal US tariffs remain in effect, the representative reported.
The representative stated that the United States must correct its erroneous practices and completely lift the relevant unilateral tariff measures. He also added that China will continue to closely monitor and fully assess subsequent US steps, reserving the right to take all necessary measures.
Meanwhile, China is ready to continue dialogue and consultations with the United States based on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit, striving to resolve each other's issues. China expressed hope that the United States would work in the same direction, calling for joint efforts to maintain and implement the consensus reached during economic and trade consultations. The two sides should continue to expand cooperation, thereby making a greater contribution to building constructive bilateral relations of strategic stability.
