WTO to Probe U.S. Tariffs as China Files Formal Complaint
China has filled a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) over the new tariffs imposed by the United States on Chinese goods.
The complaint, lodged on Wednesday, requests WTO dispute consultations with the U.S. regarding the new tariff measures.
The dispute are the 10% tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on all Chinese imports, which took effect on Tuesday.
In retaliation, China announced 15% tariffs on U.S. imports, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) products and coal.
China argues that the U.S. tariffs are “protectionist” and break WTO rules. The complaint marks the beginning of a dispute process that could lead to a WTO ruling.
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“Consultations give the parties an opportunity to discuss the matter and to find a satisfactory solution without proceeding further with litigation,’’ WTO said.
If the dispute is not resolved after 60 days, the complainant may request adjudication by a panel.
Experts then assess whether the tariffs are comply with WTO rules, in a procedure that takes several months.
PRNigeria gathered that if the arbitration rule in China’s favour, Beijing can, under WTO rules, impose tariffs itself to the extent that it has suffered damage as a result of the US tariffs.
Recall that Trump had promised to slap high tariffs on foreign goods.
He previously implemented several duties during his first term from 2017 to 2021.
