China rejects US trade restrictions, calls for stable bilateral economic relations

BEIJING: China on Thursday reiterated its opposition to unilateral restrictive measures and trade barriers, criticizing a series of US trade restrictions imposed under the pretext of addressing so-called “forced labor” concerns.

Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson He Yongqian responded to reports that the United States was considering new tariff measures targeting economies accused of benefiting from forced labor practices.

The spokesperson emphasized that China has consistently opposed such restrictions, arguing that the measures are unjustified and undermine normal economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

Referring to the US Section 301 Investigation, He said Beijing’s position has remained unchanged and that China has repeatedly conveyed its serious concerns regarding trade actions taken by Washington under the banner of forced labor allegations.

He stressed that the Chinese government firmly rejects what it views as politically motivated trade restrictions and urged the United States to adopt a more constructive approach toward bilateral economic engagement.

The spokesperson called on both countries to move in the same direction, strengthen dialogue and cooperation, and jointly safeguard the stability of China–United States economic and trade relations.

He added that maintaining stable commercial ties between the world’s two largest economies serves the interests of both countries and contributes to global economic growth and supply-chain stability.