At a regular press conference of China’s Ministry of Commerce, spokesperson He Yongqian responded to U.S. efforts to close a so-called “loophole” that could allow exports of advanced chips to Chinese entities outside mainland China. He stated that China opposes the U.S. misuse of export controls under the guise of national security, which harms Chinese enterprises’ legitimate rights, disrupts international trade order, and destabilizes global semiconductor supply chains. On U.S. proposed tariffs on alleged forced labor economies, He reiterated China’s opposition to unilateral restrictions, urging the U.S. to work together to maintain stable bilateral trade ties. Regarding U.S. consideration of tariff reductions on non-sensitive products, He noted that China welcomes this step under the agreed trade council framework for reciprocal product-specific tariff cuts, which would help stabilize and expand bilateral trade.
China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that as of June 1, Australian beef imports had reached 90% of the annual country-specific quota under the safeguard measures imposed on imported beef. He Yongqian explained that when imports hit the quota threshold, a 55% additional tariff will apply from the third day onward. China publishes alerts at certain percentage points to enhance transparency. She emphasized that the safeguard measure is temporary to help domestic industry recover, not to restrict normal trade, and that China remains committed to an open market.
On June 1, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao met with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira in Beijing, pledging to deepen pragmatic cooperation and jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism. Responding to a question about soybean inspection standards and beef quota talks, He Yongqian said Brazil is China’s top source of imported soybeans and beef, with imports growing rapidly this year. China is willing to maintain communication with Brazil to promote high-quality development of bilateral agricultural trade.
He Yongqian reiterated that China’s import safeguard measures are designed to temporarily assist domestic industries through difficulties, not to block normal trade flows. China consistently opposes all forms of unilateral restrictions and remains dedicated to maintaining a healthy and stable international trade environment in cooperation with all parties.
