The People’s Republic of China’s State Council Information Office on Thursday released a white paper reaffirming its commitment to mutually beneficial trade relations with the United States. The policy paper, titled “China’s Position on Some Issues Concerning China-U.S. Economic and Trade Relations,” outlines Beijing’s perspectives on trade imbalances, technology policy, and economic cooperation, while criticizing what it refers to as “unilateralist and protectionist practices” by Washington.
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1. Defending Multilateralism and Dialogue
The document reiterates China’s support for a rules-based global trade system and urges the U.S. to roll back tariffs and restrictions imposed under prior administrations. These measures, the report claims, have disrupted supply chains, weakened market stability, and eroded trust in multilateral trade norms.
“Disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation, not coercive economic measures,” the white paper states.
China is also pressing for the removal of U.S. export controls and investment curbs targeting Chinese technology firms.
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2. Addressing Trade Imbalance and Economic Structures
On the longstanding U.S.-China trade deficit, China attributes the imbalance to structural differences between the two economies, particularly the U.S.’s consumption-led model. The document notes that China has increased imports of American agricultural and energy products and points to 2024 procurement agreements as evidence of progress.
“China does not intentionally seek a trade surplus,” the report argues. “Trade results are shaped by comparative advantage and market forces.”
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3. Technology and Intellectual Property Disputes
China pushes back on U.S. allegations of forced technology transfers and intellectual property theft. Citing a 30% rise in annual patent applications and a 2023 revision of its IP laws, the document presents China as a responsible innovator committed to fair competition.
“China’s scientific and technological advances are driven by indigenous innovation and lawful international cooperation—not coercion,” it states.
It also criticizes American semiconductor export bans as counterproductive and detrimental to global innovation.
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4. Warning Against Economic Decoupling
Beijing raises concerns over what it sees as the U.S. “weaponizing” economic tools through subsidies and bans targeting Chinese firms. The report warns that decoupling the world’s two largest economies could severely damage global economic recovery, particularly in emerging economies reliant on U.S.-China trade flows.
“Artificial barriers and ideological competition threaten global market fragmentation and shared prosperity,” the document warns.
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5. A Call for Renewed Cooperation
In a forward-looking section, China proposes reviving bilateral working groups on trade, finance, and climate cooperation. It also emphasizes collaboration on green energy development and AI governance as crucial areas for joint leadership.
“Cooperation is not a choice but a necessity in addressing global challenges,” said Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce.
“The era of zero-sum confrontation should give way to shared interests.”
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6. Strategic Timing and Global Implications
The white paper’s release comes ahead of anticipated China-U.S. trade talks at the upcoming G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Analysts interpret the document as both a reaffirmation of China’s traditional positions and a diplomatic gesture toward easing tensions.
“Beijing is signaling its desire for stability, but without compromising on core issues,” said Dr. Mei Xinyu, trade analyst at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation. “This is a message to Washington—cooperation is still achievable, but mutual respect is essential.”
As geopolitical competition persists, China’s latest statement may offer a roadmap toward de-escalation—one that will require political will and policy changes from both capitals to prevent deeper economic fragmentation.
This article is based on the official white paper issued by the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China. U.S. officials had not responded publicly at the time of publication.
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