Title: China’s Ministry of Commerce Responds to Canada’s Trade Restrictive Measures
Introduction
In a recent development, the spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce has issued a statement regarding Canada’s trade restrictive measures against Chinese imports. The Canadian government’s decision to impose additional tariffs on electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products from China has drawn strong objections from Beijing.
Background
On September 3, 2024, the Ministry of Commerce’s spokesperson addressed journalists, expressing China’s deep dissatisfaction and firm opposition to Canada’s discriminatory unilateral restrictive measures. The spokesperson’s comments were published on the ministry’s website and reported by China News Service.
According to the spokesperson, Canada’s actions, which include imposing additional tariffs on Chinese imports, contravene international trade rules and norms. The spokesperson noted that despite multiple warnings and劝阻 (persuasions) from various parties, Canada has proceeded with these measures.
China’s Response
The Chinese government has made it clear that it will not stand idly by in the face of such unfair trade practices. The spokesperson announced that China plans to refer the matter to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Dispute Settlement Mechanism.
Furthermore, the spokesperson outlined that China will initiate an anti-discrimination investigation under Article 7 and Article 36 of the People’s Republic of China Foreign Trade Law in response to Canada’s restrictive measures. The subsequent actions taken by China will depend on the actual situation and developments.
Concerns Over Canadian Export of油菜籽
In addition to the tariffs, the spokesperson highlighted concerns raised by the Chinese domestic industry regarding the surge in Canadian exports of rapeseed to China. The volume of rapeseed exports from Canada to China has reportedly increased by 170% in 2023, reaching $3.47 billion, with prices continuously declining. This has led to sustained losses for the Chinese rapeseed industry due to unfair competition from Canada.
In response, China plans to launch an anti-dumping investigation into Canadian rapeseed imports, adhering to domestic laws and WTO rules. The spokesperson also mentioned that the Chinese industry has applied for an investigation into certain chemical products from Canada.
China’s Commitment to Defending Its Interests
The spokesperson emphasized that China is committed to defending the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises. The Chinese government is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect its economic interests and ensure a fair trading environment.
China’s position is clear, the spokesperson stated. We will take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of our enterprises.
Conclusion
The recent trade restrictive measures by Canada have strained the trade relations between China and Canada. China’s response, which includes referring the matter to the WTO and initiating investigations into Canadian exports, underscores its determination to protect its economic interests and uphold international trade rules.
As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the economic ties between the two countries. However, it is evident that China is prepared to stand its ground and defend its position in the face of such challenges.
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