The Ministry of Commerce of China has voiced strong opposition to the United States' persistent abuse of export controls under the guise of national security. The ministry stated that these actions severely infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, disrupt international economic and trade order, and significantly impact the stability of the global semiconductor industry chain and supply chain.
During a regular press conference on June 4th, spokesperson He Yongqian addressed inquiries regarding the US Commerce Department's recent moves to close what it termed regulatory loopholes concerning chip exports. He Yongqian emphasized that China consistently opposes such measures and urged the US to promptly correct its erroneous practices, cease discriminatory actions against China, and work to uphold the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
In response to questions about US tariffs proposed on economies allegedly involved in forced labor, He Yongqian reiterated China's consistent position on the Section 301 investigations. He stated that China opposes all forms of unilateral restrictive measures, including those trade restrictions imposed on China under the pretext of "forced labor," a stance China has expressed on multiple occasions. He urged the US to meet China halfway to jointly maintain the stability of Sino-US economic and trade relations.
Regarding the US Trade Representative's mention of potentially lowering tariffs on certain products, He Yongqian noted that based on prior economic and trade consultations, both sides agreed to establish a Trade Council. Under this council, a framework for reciprocal tariff reductions on products of comparable scale would be discussed. China views this arrangement as a positive step by the US in its tariff policy towards China, holding positive significance for stabilizing and expanding bilateral trade. Economic and trade teams from both sides will maintain close communication to finalize specific arrangements and promote their implementation promptly.
Separately, the spokesperson provided updates on other trade matters. He confirmed plans to host over 100 "Export to China" events by 2026, with upcoming overseas events scheduled in Belarus and Germany. These initiatives aim to promote quality products from various countries to Chinese enterprises and consumers, serving as a platform to expand imports and share development opportunities.
On agricultural trade, He Yongqian mentioned that Brazil remains China's largest source of imported soybeans and beef. He expressed China's willingness to maintain communication with Brazil to jointly promote the high-quality development of bilateral agricultural trade.
He also commented on the newly released "State Council Regulations on Outbound Investment," set to take effect on July 1st. He described the regulations as a milestone, designed to strengthen services, optimize management, and enhance protection for investors, thereby providing robust legal safeguards for enterprises engaging in international cooperation and competition.
Finally, regarding Australia's beef imports, He Yongqian clarified the safeguard measure mechanism involving country-specific quotas and additional tariffs. He stressed that the measure aims to temporarily assist the domestic industry through difficulties, not to restrict normal beef trade, reaffirming that the Chinese market remains open.