A reporter asked: On the day of the month, Eastern Time, the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced that it would seek public comments on the restrictive measures it has taken against China in the fields of maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding. What is the Ministry of Commerce's response to this?

Answer: China has taken note of the relevant situation. Since [specific month and year], China and the United States have engaged in multiple rounds of communication regarding the U.S. investigation into China's maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries. China has repeatedly stated its views on the investigation and provided non-paper documents outlining its stance, urging the U.S. to return to rationality and objectivity and to stop blaming China for the development issues of U.S. domestic industries. However, it is regrettable that the U.S. continues to act unilaterally and is moving further down the wrong path.

Previously, the additional tariffs imposed by the United States on China were ruled by the WTO panel as a violation of WTO rules and opposed by many WTO members. The United States, driven by domestic political needs, has abused investigative measures, further undermining the multilateral trading system. The proposed restrictive measures, such as port fees suggested by the U.S., are detrimental to both others and itself. Not only do they fail to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding industry, but they also increase the transportation costs of shipping routes related to the U.S., raise domestic inflationary pressures, reduce the global competitiveness of U.S. goods, and harm the interests of U.S. ports, terminal operators, and workers. There is also significant domestic opposition to these measures in the U.S. Relevant countries and organizations have also expressed opposition and dissatisfaction with the U.S. investigation.

China urges the United States to respect facts and multilateral rules and to cease its erroneous practices. China will closely monitor the actions of the United States and take necessary measures to defend its legitimate rights and interests.