China demands US drop tariffs on forced labour allegations

China’s Ministry of Commerce has lodged a strong protest against American tariffs imposed under Section 301 regulations, which target Chinese goods over allegations of forced labour practices. The ministry called on the United States to “correct its wrongful practices” and withdraw what it characterised as unilateral protectionist measures.

The tariffs represent ongoing tension between Beijing and Washington over labour standards in Chinese manufacturing. The US has long alleged that certain Chinese industries, particularly in Xinjiang, rely on coercive labour practices, though China denies these claims and argues that characterising its employment practices as forced labour is politically motivated.

China’s commerce ministry framed the American action as protectionism disguised as labour advocacy, insisting that the tariffs violate international trade rules and harm bilateral economic relations. The statement reflects deepening trade friction between the two economic superpowers, who have clashed repeatedly over tariffs, intellectual property, and supply chain issues in recent years.

The Section 301 tariffs are part of a broader US strategy to pressure countries over human rights concerns while protecting American industries from cheaper imports. China has previously responded to such measures with retaliatory tariffs of its own on American agricultural and industrial goods.

Source: Walla News — Original article in Hebrew.