Chinese MOC comments on investigation in response to Mexico's measures targeting China

On September 25, a representative of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said that China had decided to initiate an investigation into trade and investment barriers in accordance with the provisions of the Foreign Trade Act and the rules for Investigating Barriers to Foreign Trade. The spokesman said that China believes that tariffs are being imposed indiscriminately against the background of the United States, all countries should jointly resist unilateralism and protectionism in all forms, and should not sacrifice the interests of third parties because of coercion by others. He added that if Mexico's unilateral tariff increase were to take effect, it would undermine the interests of relevant trading partners, including China, even within the WTO. It will also seriously affect confidence in the Mexican business environment and destroy corporate confidence in investing in Mexico. China firmly opposes this step, he said.

The investigation focuses on measures proposed by the Mexican government to increase import tariffs on products from non-free trade agreement partners, including China. In particular, these measures include product categories such as cars and parts, textiles, clothing, plastics, steel, household appliances, aluminum, toys, furniture, shoes, leather goods, paper and paper, motorcycles and glass. In addition, other trade and investment restrictions imposed by Mexico in recent years that affect China are also under investigation.

The MOC representative stated that the investigation will adhere to the principles of impartiality, fairness and transparency. All stakeholders affected by Mexico's measure, including China's domestic industries and enterprises, are encouraged to actively participate in the investigation. In conclusion, he stated that China's MOC will bring about an objective and impartial decision based on the findings of the investigation and will take the necessary measures according to the actual circumstances to resolutely protect its legitimate rights and interests.