The Ministry of Commerce responded to the US launching a Section 301 investigation against 16 economies, including China: It has lodged a protest with the US.

PANews reported on March 16 that, according to Jinshi News, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce answered reporters' questions regarding the U.S. Trade Representative's announcement of a Section 301 investigation into 60 economies, including China, on the grounds that "the import of goods involving forced labor is not prohibited." The Ministry of Commerce stated that the U.S. had previously fabricated facts and imposed a series of trade restrictions on China under the pretext of "forced labor," and China has repeatedly expressed its firm position. Currently, China and the U.S. are holding a new round of trade consultations in Paris, France, and China has lodged representations with the U.S. We urge the U.S. to immediately correct its erroneous practices, meet China halfway, adhere to the principles of mutual respect and equal consultation, and find a solution through dialogue and consultation. We will closely monitor the progress of the U.S. investigation, reserve the right to take all necessary measures, and resolutely defend our legitimate rights and interests.