China's Ministry of Commerce has voiced firm opposition to the United States' decision to impose Section 232 tariffs on drones and their components, calling the move a protectionist act disguised as national security concerns. Spokesperson He Yadong addressed the issue at a routine press conference on the 20th, confirming that Beijing has taken note of Washington's latest trade action.

He emphasized that the US Section 232 measures represent unilateralism and protectionism under the guise of "national security." He pointed out that Chinese drone exports to the US are predominantly used in civilian sectors such as agriculture, equipment inspection, and film production, underscoring the non-military nature of these products.

The spokesperson criticized the US for broadening the concept of national security, applying differentiated tariff rates to trading partners, and treating Chinese products in a discriminatory manner. These actions, he argued, seriously harm the interests of Chinese enterprises, disrupt the global drone supply chain and cooperation order, and further undermine the fair competition environment in the market.

China firmly opposes these measures and urges the US to immediately revoke the Section 232 tariff-related actions, according to He. The statement concludes with a clear call for Washington to rectify its approach to restore normal trade relations.