The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has responded to several prominent trade issues, including US actions on chip export controls, proposed tariffs, and China's safeguard measures on imported beef.
At a regular press briefing on the 4th, spokesperson He Yongqian addressed questions regarding the US Commerce Department's moves to close so-called regulatory loopholes in chip exports. He stated that China has taken note of the situation. He emphasized that in recent years, the US has repeatedly abused export controls under the pretext of national security. These actions, he argued, severely infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, disrupt international economic and trade order, and destabilize the global semiconductor industry and supply chains. China consistently opposes such measures and urges the US to promptly correct its misguided approach, cease discriminatory actions against China, and help maintain the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
When questioned about US proposals to impose additional tariffs on economies allegedly involved in forced labor, He Yongqian reiterated China's consistent position on Section 301 investigations. China opposes all forms of unilateral restrictive measures, including trade restrictions imposed on China under the guise of "forced labor," a stance China has expressed clearly on multiple occasions. He urged the US to work with China to jointly safeguard the stability of bilateral economic and trade relations.
Regarding the US Trade Representative's mention of mutual tariff reductions on certain products, He Yongqian noted that based on prior economic and trade consultations, both sides agreed to establish a Trade Council. Under this council, a framework for reciprocal tariff reductions on products of equivalent scale would be discussed. China views this arrangement as a correct step by the US in its tariff policy toward China, holding positive significance for stabilizing and expanding bilateral trade. Economic and trade teams from both sides will maintain close communication to finalize and implement the specific arrangements as soon as possible.
Responding to a question on beef import safeguards, a reporter noted that the Ministry had announced on June 1st that imports of Australian beef had reached 90% of its annual country-specific quota. The reporter asked if safeguard tariffs would be automatically applied once the threshold was met or if other factors would be considered before a decision. He Yongqian explained that the Ministry's announcement on December 31, 2025, outlined safeguard measures on imported beef in the form of "country-specific quotas and additional tariffs beyond the quota." Starting from the third day (inclusive) after a country's beef imports reach its annual quota, importers must pay an additional 55% tariff on top of the current applicable rate. To ensure transparency, the Ministry and the General Administration of Customs will issue relevant notifications when a country's imports reach a certain percentage of its quota and when the quota is fully met.
He stressed that the safeguard measures on imported beef are intended to provide temporary assistance to the domestic industry during a difficult period, not to restrict normal beef trade. The Chinese market remains open, and China is willing to work with all parties to maintain a stable and healthy international trade environment.
He Yongqian also announced that in 2026, the Ministry of Commerce plans to host over 100 "Export to China" events. These events aim to promote high-quality products from various countries to Chinese enterprises and consumers, serving as a platform to help foreign companies expand exports to China. This initiative is part of broader efforts to increase imports and share the opportunities presented by China's development with the world. Specific "Export to China" overseas events are scheduled to be held in Belarus on June 7th and in Germany on June 11th.
Comments