China: US shipbuilding investigation 'full of false accusations'

Beijing confirmed that it strongly opposes the US investigation into its commercial activities in the shipbuilding, shipping and logistics sectors, noting that it is "full of false accusations."

A statement issued by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday said: “The US investigation is full of false accusations and misinterprets normal trade and investment activities as harming US national security and corporate interests, and blames China for its (the United States’) industrial problems.”

The statement added: "The United States provides hundreds of billions of dollars in discriminatory support to its industries, but accuses China of adopting what are called (non-market practices)."

"In fact, the development of Chinese industries is the result of companies' technological innovation and active participation in market competition," she continued.

The ministry noted that "China will pay great attention to the progress of the investigation and will take all necessary measures to defend its rights and interests."

The Office of the United States Trade Representative announced earlier that it would begin an investigation in response to a recent petition submitted by five American federations.

US President Joe Biden intends to triple the tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum stipulated in Article 301 of the Trade Law, citing “unfair competition.”