Ministry of Commerce responds to Trump's memorandum<br>

Chinese Ministry of Commerce has responded to the American President Donald Trump’s memorandum directing the US Trade Representative to impose an estimated 60 billion US dollars in tariffs on Chinese exports. A senior official with the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, Chen Fuli, answered questions on this issue.

Chen pointed out that America’s 301 investigation is a typical unilateral action with protectionism, as it comes out from the America’s domestic law. It also broke America’s own commitments to the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Chen also points out that the 301 investigation ignores the reality of the Chinese instead, focusing on satisfying America's domestic political needs.

“Since China began opening up 40 years ago, China firmly facilitates market-orientated reform, expansion of market access, strengthening intellectual property right protection. The US ignores the reality of China. It ignores the years of efforts that the two countries made, working together to strengthen economic and trade cooperation, and the dialogue on intellectual property rights. “

China and the US have grown to be close economic partners. In 2017, the trade in goods reached 580 billion US dollars, an increase multiplied over 230 times. The trade in services reached 120 billion US dollars, accumulating two-way investments that exceeded 230 billion US dollars.

Chen says that the 301 investigation ignores the nature of China-US trade and commerce, which is mutually beneficial and has win-win results, and that America’s move will have negative impacts.

“The US chose to launch the unilateral investigation, and take measures to limit China, creating a very wicked example. It’s not good for the interests of China, the US, and the world.“

Despite the repeated questions, Chen refused to reveal any details of Beijing’s specific plan. He didn't answer if some big American companies, including Boeing and Apple, will be affected by China's plan. But Chen said that Beijing is fully prepared, and will resolutely protect the legitimate rights of China. Beijing will closely watch Washington’s moves, and as soon as the US takes action, China will comprehensively act.

(CGTN)