Kathmandu— China's Ministry of Commerce has urged the United States to immediately repeal its Section 232 tariff measures on drones and drone parts, arguing that these policies harm Chinese businesses and destabilize international trade. The ministry spokesperson, He Yadong, stated Thursday that the tariffs are based on a misapplication of national security concerns and represent unilateralist protectionism. China maintains that most drones exported to the U.S. serve civilian purposes such as agriculture, inspection, and entertainment, and that the tariffs distort market competition.

Tariff Concerns and Civilian Use

The Ministry of Commerce asserts that the U.S. Section 232 measures stretch the definition of national security and unfairly target Chinese products with differentiated tariff rates. He Yadong explained at a press conference that these tariffs undermine fair competition within the market, adding, “China firmly opposes this.” The spokesperson emphasized that the vast majority of Chinese drones exported to the United States are utilized in civilian applications like agriculture, equipment inspection, and the film industry.

Rejection of ‘Transshipment’ Allegations

Responding to U.S. claims of a “shadow transshipment network,” China dismissed the allegations as false narratives and fabrications. He Yadong criticized a recent U.S. report titled “The Great Transshipment Scam: Rise, Scope, and Costs” for misrepresenting normal international trade and investment activities. According to the spokesperson, labeling legitimate economic activity as a ‘scam’ is an example of unilateralism and protectionism intended to suppress Chinese products.

Root Cause of Supply Chain Issues

China argues that the U.S.’s high and varied tariffs are the primary cause of instability in global supply chains, not external factors. He Yadong stated that attributing domestic economic problems to outside influences will not resolve underlying issues within the United States. The ministry urged Washington to cease what it calls irresponsible accusations and instead work towards securing stable industrial and supply chains.

Commitment to International Trade

China reiterated its commitment to adhering to international economic and trade regulations, emphasizing a continued willingness to engage in mutually beneficial cooperation with all parties. He Yadong affirmed that China will continue to pursue economic and trade partnerships based on equality and mutual benefit, contributing to global development and prosperity.

China has called for the immediate removal of tariffs and a return to constructive economic relations, while the U.S. has not yet publicly responded to these latest criticisms.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.