China News Service, October 16th. The Ministry of Commerce held a regular press conference on the 16th. Spokesperson He Yongqian responded to the “US Section 301 investigation and restrictive measures on China’s shipbuilding and other industries.”
He Yongqian pointed out that the relevant US remarks seriously distort the facts. From August 27th to 29th local time, Li Chenggang, International Trade Representative and Vice Minister, traveled to the United States. He engaged in communication with the US side regarding the implementation of the consensus from the phone call between the leaders of China and the US, discussing issues such as China-US economic and trade relations and the implementation of the consensus from the China-US economic and trade talks. He also raised concerns with the US side regarding its Section 301 investigation and restrictive measures on China’s shipbuilding and other industries.
Recently, in accordance with the consensus from the leaders’ call and the China-US economic and trade talks, the Chinese side has been proactively engaging in consultations and communication with the US side on the Section 301 investigation restrictive measures, maintaining a constructive posture and putting forward relevant cooperation proposals. However, the US side has shown a negative attitude and insisted on implementing the restrictive measures. Consequently, China had to adopt countermeasures, including, in accordance with laws and regulations, charging special port fees for US-related vessels.
He Yongqian stated that the US Section 301 investigation and restrictive measures on China’s shipbuilding and other industries are typical unilateral and protectionist practices. They severely harm the interests of China’s related industries and will also push up domestic inflation in the US, harming the competitiveness and employment of US ports. I must particularly point out that the implementation of the US measures has indeed affected the stability of global supply chains and caused disruption in the global shipping industry. China’s relevant countermeasures are passive defensive actions and a necessary step to safeguard a fair competitive environment in the international shipping and shipbuilding markets.
He Yongqian emphasized that China hopes the US side can recognize its erroneous actions, move towards China, and return to the correct track of dialogue and consultation.
