China has issued a stern warning that it will take "all necessary measures" if Washington uses the 2020 deal investigation to impose new tariffs. The statement came after US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer confirmed that the agreement is undergoing a continued compliance review.
China’s Ministry of Commerce emphasized that Beijing has fulfilled its commitments under the Phase One deal, including protection of intellectual property and market openings, despite the pandemic. The agency placed the blame for undermining the implementation of the deal on the United States, pointing to tightening export controls and restrictions on bilateral investments. If the investigation serves as a pretext for new tariffs, China will decisively defend its interests.
This exchange of statements comes just weeks before Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing. Previously, the US Supreme Court struck down sweeping emergency tariffs. However, the administration continues to seek the imposition of tariffs through the Section 301 mechanism. The Chinese side urged for an objective assessment of the deal and resolution of disagreements through consultation, rather than shifting responsibility.
