Story perspectives

China Slams US Trade Investigations Amid Ongoing Talks

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

China's Ministry of Commerce criticized the United States' Section 301 investigations as unilateral and discriminatory.
The ministry said the United States previously fabricated claims to impose trade restrictions on Chinese products.
China reaffirmed its commitment to combat forced labor and to abide by international labor conventions.
As trade talks proceed in Paris, China will monitor investigations closely and may take measures to protect its interests.

History

Historical Context

The Trade Act of 1974 established Section 301, empowering the U.S. to impose unilateral trade measures against countries like China for unfair practices. This framework has led to significant trade disputes, notably the 2018 tariffs under President Trump, which targeted $50 billion in Chinese goods. China's recent criticism of these investigations highlights ongoing tensions that could reshape future U.S.-China trade relations.

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Story summary

China's Ministry of Commerce criticized the United States' Section 301 investigations as unilateral and discriminatory.
The ministry said the United States previously fabricated claims to impose trade restrictions on Chinese products.
China reaffirmed its commitment to combat forced labor and to abide by international labor conventions.
As trade talks proceed in Paris, China will monitor investigations closely and may take measures to protect its interests.

1 / 2