China vows action if US damages trade ties, as Trump gives green light for probe
Beijing — China will take action to defend its interests if the US damages trade ties, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, after US President Donald Trump authorised an inquiry into China’s alleged theft of intellectual property. Trump’s move, the first direct trade measure by his administration against China, comes at a time of heightened tension over North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, though it is unlikely to prompt near-term change in commercial ties. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer will have a year to look into whether to launch a formal investigation of China’s policies on intellectual property, which the White House and US industry groups say are harming US businesses and jobs. The US should respect objective facts, act prudently, abide by its World Trade Organisation (WTO) pledges, and not destroy principles of multilateralism, an unidentified spokesman of China’s Commerce Ministry said in a statement. "If the US side ignores the facts, and disrespects multilateral...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.