The Ministry of Commerce spokesperson responded to media inquiries regarding the final measures announced by the US over the Section 301 investigation into "forced labor" imports.

On July 23, Eastern Time, the Office of the United States Trade Representative, citing findings from a Section 301 investigation into products allegedly linked to forced labor, issued final measures. These include imposing a 301 tariff on 60 economies, including China, with an additional 12.5% levy specifically targeting Chinese goods. When asked about China's position, the spokesperson stated that Beijing has noted the development and reiterated its firm opposition to forced labor.

The spokesperson emphasized that China has a comprehensive labor law system and consistently prevents and combats forced labor practices. In contrast, the US has not only failed to ratify the Forced Labor Convention of 1930 but has also long manipulated the issue of forced labor. This latest action, initiating a Section 301 investigation and imposing unilateral tariffs under the pretext of forced labor, is described as a typical act of unilateralism and protectionism, to which China is resolutely opposed.

China also noted that the US has repeatedly indicated its intention to replace tariffs previously imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the 122% import surcharge, which have been ruled invalid, with Section 301 tariffs. The US explicitly committed during bilateral trade consultations that alternative tariffs on Chinese goods would not exceed 20%. Currently, the alternative tariff rate on Chinese goods stands at 12.5%. China's retaliatory measures against the US first round of so-called fentanyl tariffs and reciprocal tariffs remain in effect.

The spokesperson concluded by stating that China will continue to closely monitor and comprehensively assess subsequent US actions, while reserving the right to take all necessary measures. Beijing urges Washington to correct its erroneous approach and fully revoke these unilateral tariff measures. China expresses its willingness to continue dialogue and consultation with the US on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit to address respective concerns. It hopes the US will work in the same direction as China, jointly uphold and implement trade consultation consensus, continuously shrink the list of issues, and expand the list of cooperation, contributing to a constructive and stable strategic relationship between the two countries.