China slams U.S. Tariffs, urges WTO-led trade fairness as Chinese commerce minister held video conference with WTO Director General.
China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao strongly criticized the United States for its recent tariff actions, saying they pose a threat to global trade stability and disturb the international economic framework.
During a video conference with World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on Friday, Wang labeled the U.S. policy of “reciprocal tariffs” as a prime example of unilateral coercion. He warned these actions would negatively impact developing countries, especially the poorest nations, and could potentially trigger a humanitarian crisis.
Wang stressed that the U.S. tariffs violate fundamental WTO principles, weaken global trade rules, and destabilize the foundation of multilateral trade. He noted that China has responded decisively to protect its rights and defend global equity and justice.
He further emphasized that while trade disagreements among WTO members are natural, they should be resolved through dialogue and mutual respect, in line with WTO regulations. Wang urged member states to oppose unilateralism, protectionism, and coercive trade policies, and to champion open cooperation and multilateralism.
Reaffirming China’s stance, Wang said the country remains committed to following WTO rules, playing an active role in reform efforts, and ensuring a just, transparent, and inclusive global trading system.
Director-General Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged that escalating trade tensions are seriously challenging global commerce and economic stability. She highlighted the necessity of preserving an open, rules-based multilateral trade system and encouraged dispute resolution through constructive dialogue within the WTO framework.
She also stressed that any agreements involving the United States must comply with the WTO’s Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) principle, ensuring equal treatment for all members.
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