Spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce responds to questions from reporters regarding the US initiating two trade barrier investigations.

Question: We noticed that the Ministry of Commerce issued two announcements, launching two trade barrier investigations into the United States' relevant measures and practices. Can you introduce the relevant situation? The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative initiated a Section 301 investigation against China and 16 other economies on March 12, citing "overcapacity," and another investigation against China and 60 other economies on March 13, citing "failure to effectively prohibit the import of products made by forced labor." China strongly opposes and is dissatisfied with these actions. To firmly defend the interests of relevant industries in China, in accordance with relevant provisions of the Foreign Trade Law of the People's Republic of China and the Rules on Foreign Trade Barrier Investigations, the Ministry of Commerce issued two announcements on March 27, respectively launching two trade barrier investigations in response to the U.S.' practices and measures that undermine the global production supply chain and hinder the trade of green products. In the next step, the Ministry of Commerce will proceed with the barrier investigations against the U.S. in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Foreign Trade Law and the Rules on Foreign Trade Barrier Investigations. Based on the investigation results, corresponding measures will be taken to firmly defend China's legitimate rights and interests.