China opposes possible additional U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods

(ECNS) -- China voiced firm opposition to a possible additional 7.5% U.S. tariff on Chinese imports on Thursday, saying it would reserve the right to take necessary measures. 

Ministry of Commerce spokesperson Huang Ling made the remarks at a press conference in Beijing, responding to U.S. claims of “excess capacity.”

Washington had launched Section 301 investigations into 16 economies, including China. Huang called the move an attempt to politicize trade issues and an act of unilateralism and protectionism.

She also referred to a position paper released by the Ministry of Commerce on July 28, titled “China’s Position on the So-called Excess Capacity Issue.” 

The document said China’s export growth has been driven by economies of scale, innovation and global demand for the green transition.

(By Helen Mo & intern Liu Shuangjing)