WT/TPR/M/415  
24 November 2021  
(21-8857) Page: 1/103 
Trade Policy Review Body   
20 and 22 October 2021  
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
CHINA 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA  ................................ ........  4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ .............  10 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ .......................  14 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ...........  73 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  102  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by China  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 415/Add.1  and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 2 - 
 
  1  INTRODUCTORY R EMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The eighth Trade Policy Review of China  was held on 20 and 22 October  2021. The Chairperson, 
H.E. Dr. Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana), welcomed the delegation of China , headed by 
Mr. Wang  Wentao, Minister of Commerce; H.E. Am bassador L i Chenggang, Permanent 
Representative of China to the WTO; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador  Xolelwa M lumbi -Peter (South Africa) . 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also b enefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership, in 
particular of officials who could not make the journey from Beijing  given the current circumstances.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The report by China  is contained in document WT/TPR/G/41 5, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/41 5. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Viet Nam; Australia; Pakistan; the Russian Federation; Switzerland; North Macedonia; Israel; 
Thailand; Hong Kong, China; Brazil; Japan; Argentina; Singapore; Costa Rica; Oman; Norway; the 
United States; Mexico; Colombia; Ukraine; El Salvador; Can ada; the Philippines; Chile; New 
Zealand; the United  Kingdom; Chinese Taipei; the European Union; Iceland; Saudi Arabia; Brunei 
Darussalam; Malaysia; Bangladesh; Indonesia; the Republic of Korea; India; and the Dominican 
Republic. The following delegations  submitted written questions after the deadline: Turkey; Ecuador; 
and Panama.  
1.5.  At the time of its previous Review in 2018, Members had noted the importance of China to the 
world economy, as the world's largest trader, as the main trading partner for many WT O Members, 
and as an increasingly important player in the multilateral trading system. Consequently, most 
Members called on China to play a leading role in the WTO, commensurate with its trade weight.  
1.6.  In this context, the Chairperson first focused on China 's economic developments since its last 
Review. The Secretariat's report indicates that real GDP growth rates fell from 6.0% in 2019 to 2.3% 
in 2020. The outbreak of the COVID ‑19 pandemic in early 2020 had a major impact on output and 
employment. At the be ginning of 2020, China's economy contracted by 6.8%.  
1.7.  Starting in mid -2020, the economy began to recover, mainly driven by public investment and 
international trade. China's swift fiscal and monetary policy reactions helped mitigate the economic 
impact of t he COVID ‑19 pandemic. However, as a result of the Government's stabilizing measures, 
financial stability risks increased.  
1.8.  The Chairperson was encouraged to read from the Government Report prepared for this Review 
that China committed itself to deepening re form across the board, advancing supply -side structural 
reform, expanding domestic demand, and creating a market -oriented business environment.  
1.9.  In the previous Review in 2018, Members had encouraged China to continue liberalizing its 
trade and investment regime, and to increase transparency by complying with WTO notification 
obligations and with its accession commitment to make all laws and regulations available in one of 
the WTO official languages. A recurring issue of interest was the role played in the economy by the 
State and ensuring transparency. Some of these issues were raised again by Members in the context 
of the current Review.  
1.10.   During the period covered by this Review, China relaxed its foreign investment restrictions, 
reduced its applied MFN tar iffs in many product categories, and took various trade -facilitating 
measures with respect to import and export.  
1.11.   In addition, some changes were made to the competition legislation, mainly to strengthen the 
protection of trade secrets. China also undertook  reforms in its intellectual property regime including 
the amendment of various IP legislation. Furthermore, reform of state -owned enterprises proceeded 
in the context of mixed ownership reform.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 3 - 
 
  1.12.   A survey of advance written questions submitted for this Rev iew showed the wide range of 
topics of interest to Members regarding China's trade and investment regimes. Many questions were 
raised concerning transparency, the role of state -owned enterprises in the economy, incentives and 
subsidies, SPS measures, gover nment procurement, competition policy, and intellectual property.  
1.13.   China received around 1,600 advance written questions from 40 Members for this Review, of 
which 1,545 were sent within the established deadline. Prior to this meeting, China had already 
provided written replies to almost all of these questions and the Chairperson was looking forward to 
hearing China's updates on these matters in the two -day meeting.  
1.14.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of intere st 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system.  
1.15.   It was also an opportune moment for China to update the Membership on the impact of the 
COVID -19 pandemic on its economy and the measures it had taken in response. The Chairperson 
was looking  forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.16.   The Chairperson closed her introductory remarks by wishing China a very successful eighth 
Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 4 - 
 
  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA ( H.E. MR. WANG WENTAO ) 
2.1.  It gives me great pleasure to attend the eighth Trade Policy Review of China via video link. I'd 
like to thank Chair Molokomme and the Secretariat for your pre paration, and 
Ambassador  Mlumbi -Peter for ser ving as the discussant for the R eview. I appreciate all the other 
Memb ers' engagement in the R eview.  
2.2.  The Chinese G overnment takes the trade policy review very seriously. Today, joining me at the 
meeting are Mr. Wang Shouwen, Vice Minister of Commerce and Deputy China International Trade 
Representative, and more than 20 colle agues from 10 departments  of the Chinese Government , as 
well as Ambassador Li Chenggang and his colleagues from China's Permanent Mission to the WTO.  
2.3.  President Xi Jinping stressed that as a proponent of economic globalization, China adheres to 
the basic st ate policy of opening -up. China has, on many occasions, called upon all sides to defend 
the multilateral trading system and build an open  world economy. Since the last R eview, China has 
stayed committed to deepening reform, expanding opening -up and growing  its open economy at a 
higher level. C hina has worked with other WTO M embers to make economic globalization more open, 
inclusive, balanced and beneficial for all. Since the outbreak of COVID -19, China has struck the 
balance between epidemic prevention and control and economic and social development with major 
achievements. In the meantime, China has fully supported international cooperation against 
COVID -19 and world economic recovery in the spirit of building a community with a shared future 
for mankind. Here, I'd like to make three main points.  
2.4.  First, China's new progress opens up new opportunities for the world.  
2.5.  This year marks the 20th anniversary of China's accession to the WTO. In the past two decades, 
with the hard work and dedicated efforts of the C hinese people under the firm leadership of the 
Communist Party of China, we have played to the strengths of the socialist market economic system, 
stayed committed to opening -up as a basic state policy, and achieved leapfrog economic and social 
development.  Rejecting the idea of "zero -sum game", China never pursues its own development at 
the expense of other countries' interests. On the contrary, China has embraced the strategy of 
opening -up for win -win cooperation. Its development has brought enormous oppor tunities for the 
world and made remarkable contribution to the global economy.  
2.6.  First, offering a broad market for the world. China is a maj or trading partner for over 
120 economies and, since 2008, has been the largest export market for the least developed 
countries in general. In 2020, China's import of goods totalled USD2. 1 trillion, including 
USD 45.87  billion from the least developed Members. Within two decades, China's import value of 
goods expanded by 7.5 times, with its global share up from 3.8% to 11.5%. Despite the sharp fall 
of imported travel services due to the pandemic, the value of impo rted services reached 
USD 381.1  billion in 2020, expanding by 8.7 times and taking up 8.1% of the world's total as 
compared to 2.6% twenty years ago. We  have hosted three successful sessions of the China 
International Import Expo to attract more quality products and services from the world to the 
Chinese market, thus driving global industrial development, creating jobs and increasing income for 
people in all countries.  
2.7.  Second, sharing development opportunities with the world. China accords pre -establishment 
national treatment with negative list scheduled in the administration of foreign investment. With its 
sustained efforts in liberalizing market access f or foreign investment and building a market -oriented, 
law-based business environment up to international standards, China has remained a destination of 
choice for foreign investment. China absorbed over USD  2.4 trillion of foreign investment as of the 
end of 2020, and maintained a strong momentum in the first three quarters of this year by attracting 
USD 129.3 billion of foreign investment. Foreign -invested enterprises have contributed to China's 
economic and social development while realizing their own rob ust development. According to the 
Chinese statistics, U.S. companies operating in China reaped as much as USD630 billion of sales 
revenue in 2019. In 2020, large foreign -invested industrial companies yielded USD 1.8 trillion of 
profits, up by 7% year -on-year and outpacing the national average by 2.9 percentage points. 
Surveys by foreign chambers of commerce in China suggest that most foreign -invested enterprises 
remained profitable in 2020 despite the pandemic.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 5 - 
 
  2.8.  Third, promoting mutually beneficial and win -win outcomes of higher quality. Upholding the 
principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, China has conducted high -
quality Belt and Road cooperation to achieve high  standard, people -centered and sustainable growth. 
From 2003  to 2020, overseas Chinese businesses paid USD 400 billion in taxes to host countries and 
regions. By the end of 2020, they hired nearly 2.19 million local workers, accounting for 60.6% of 
their overseas staff. Recently, President Xi Jinping announced that  China would step up support for 
other developing members in developing green and low -carbon energy, and would not build new 
coal-fired power projects abroad. Furthermore, China has been engaged in negotiations on high  
standard free trade agreements to adv ance regional economic integration as well as to liberalize and 
facilitate trade and investment. We have signed 19 free trade agreements with 26 trading partners, 
approved the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, and applied for 
accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).  
2.9.  Second, China fully supports international cooperation against COVID -19 with concrete steps.  
2.10.   Ever since the outbreak of COVID -19, China has been supporting trade liberalization  proposals 
at the WTO for medical products. By deepening exchanges and cooperation with other members, 
China has been working to keep industrial and supply chains smooth to ensure the provision of 
medical supplies. Honouring  its commitment that vaccines will serve as a global public good, China 
has contributed to greater vaccine availability and affordability in other developing countries, while 
promoting fair and reasonable vaccine distribution globally, to build a global co mmunity of health 
for all. China has provided more than 100 countries and Internat ional Organizations with over 
1 billion doses of finished and bulk vaccines and  will strive to provide 2 billion doses this year. China 
has announced its support for intellec tual property waiver for COVID -19 vaccines. China supports 
WTO in making decisions on this matter as early as possible.  
2.11.   Third, China firmly supports the WTO -centered multilateral trading system.  
2.12.   Since its accession to the WTO 20 years ago, China has been a biding by WTO rules and 
fulfilling its accession commitments. It has cleaned up a large number of laws and regulations, 
including more than 2,000 laws, regulations and departmental rules at the central level, and over 
190,000 local policies and regulations  at subnational levels. For trade in goods, its overall tariff rate 
has been reduced from 15.3% to 7.4%, much below its accession commitment of 9.8%. For trade 
in services, nearly 120 sectors have been opened up, more than it pledged upon accession. Beside s, 
China has been reinforcing intellectual property protection by legislative, administrative and judicial 
means, and fulfilling its obligations on transparency. Over the past 20 years, China has been actively 
engaged in all WTO endeavours . As a staunch su pporter for, active participant in, and major 
contributor to the multilateral trading system, China has been helping other developing members, 
the least developed members in particular, to take part in and benefit from the multilateral trading 
regime.  
2.13.   As the WTO is facing gra ve challenges, China urges all M embers to oppose unilateralism and 
protectionism while practicing true multilateralism by safeguarding a rules -based multilateral trading 
system that is transparent, non -discriminatory, open and inclusive , instead of setting discriminatory 
and exclusive standards, rules and systems, or building up barriers to trade, investment and 
technology. China supports necessary reform of the WTO with the aim of improving its rules, 
strengthening the efficacy and auth ority of the multilateral trading system, and defending the 
development rights, int erests and space of developing M embers. In keeping with the principle of 
balanced rights and obligations, China is willing to approach special and differential treatment wit h 
pragmatism and make more contribution within the WTO that is commensurate with its capacity.  
2.14.   China looks forward to positive outcomes of MC12  － resumption of normal operation in the 
Appellate Body, conclusion of the fisheries subsidies agreement and grea ter cooperation against 
COVID -19. China also supports progress on issues such as public stockholding for food security 
purposes, investment facilitation and services domestic regulation, and hopes to maintain the 
momentum on issues such as e -commerce, MSME s, women's economic empowerment, trade and 
environment and trade and health.  
2.15.   This year, China embarks on a new journey toward building a modern socialist country in all 
aspects. Having entered a new development stage, China will embrace the new development  
concepts and build a new development paradigm to drive high -quality devel opment. President WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 6 - 
 
  Xi Jinping has reiterated on many occasions that the new development paradigm entails more open 
domestic and international circulations rather than a closed domesti c one. China will open its door 
wider and all other countries are welcome to share in China's enormous market and development 
opportunities. We will follow through with the Global Development Initiative proposed by President 
Xi Jinping for more robust, gre ener and more balanced global development.  
2.16.   Madam Chair, with your permission, I would like to give the floor to Vice Minister Mr. Wang 
Shouwen to give a briefing on China's economic  and trade policies during the review p eriod and 
China's participation in t he work of the WTO.  Thank you.  
H.E.  MR. WANG  SHOUWEN,  VICE  MINISTER  OF COMMERCE  AND  DEPUTY  CHINA  INTERNATIONAL  
TRADE  REPRESENTATIV E 
2.17.   This is my fourth time to have participated in the Trade Policy R eview of China. Each time, 
the R eview has left with me a profound impression. I would like to thank all Members and the 
Secretariat for the attention they have given in this regard. Insofar, C hina has received in total 
2207 questions from 40 Members. China has answered 2151 questions from 37 Members submitted 
before 6 October. Surely, China will provide responses to the remaining questions in one month after 
this TPR.  
2.18.   President Xi Jinping pointed out that China will further enhance its level of opening -up for an 
open economy in a manner that is broader in scope, wider in coverage a nd deeper in level. Since 
last R eview, China has taken a range of proactive measures for voluntary opening -up, and provided 
opportunities for the development of world economy and all  WTO Members.  
2.19.   China has been furthering opening -up of t rade in goods. The import duties have been 
consecutively reduced by a big margin in a voluntary way. Since November 2018, China has lowered 
the tariff rates on 1,585 tariff lines covering mechanica l and electrical equipment, etc . Each year 
since 2019, Chin a applied interim import tariff rates to over 700 items of goods, which are lower 
than the MFN rates. By early 2021, China's average tariff level for all goods was as low as 7.4%, 
lower than that of all developing Members and close to the average tariff ra te of developed Members. 
China has been enhancing the level of trade facilitation. China notified measures implementing the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) to the WTO ahead of the committed schedule. So far, China has 
fully implemented all the provision s of the TFA. In June this year, China's overall customs clearance 
time for imported goods was only 36.7 hours, shortened by 62.3% compared with that of 2017, and 
this was only half of the global average customs clearance time.  
2.20.   China has been widening mark et access for trade in services. In September this year, China 
established another four comprehensive pilot zones for expanding opening -up in the services sector 
in Tianjin, Shanghai, Hainan and Chongqing, in addition to the one in Beijing. China will form ulate a 
national negative list for cross -border trade in services, and China is working to establish national 
demonstration zones for innovative development of services trade.  
2.21.   China has been further opening -up the field of investment. Since the first editi on of the 
National Negative List for Foreign Investment Access was issued in 2017, China has revised and 
shortened the list for four times. The items on the list were reduced from 63 in 2017 to 33 in 2020. 
Currently, foreign investors are allowed to own a 100% shareholding ratio in the financial sector. 
The total assets requirement for foreign banks setting up branches in China and the operating time 
requirement for establishing foreign insurance institutions in China have been removed. The first 
foreign wh olly-owned futures company has been approved to set up. The Catalogue for Encouraged 
Foreign Investment Industries (2020 edition) was published, including 1,235 items, with an increase 
of 127 items compared with the 2019 edition.  
2.22.   China has been stepping up  the development of pilot free trade zones and free trade port. At 
present, 21 pilot free trade zones have been established in China. The number of special 
administrative measures regarding the negative list for foreign investment access has been reduced 
to 30 in the Pilot Free Trade Zones. China issued the Master Plan for Hainan Free Trade Port and 
tabled the Negative List for Foreign Investment Access in Haina n Free Trade Port (with only 
27 special administrative measures). China has also implemented th e first negative list for 
cross-border trade in services in Hainan Free Trade Port.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 7 - 
 
  2.23.   China has been furthering opening -up through negotiating and signing free trade agreements. 
Since 2018, China has signed free trade agreements with Mauritius and Cambodia res pectively. 
China has signed protocols on upgrading FTAs with Singapore and New Zealand, and protocol of the 
second phase of FTA with Pakistan was also signed. Last year, China signed the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) with the  10 ASEAN countries, Japan, 
Republic of Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The leaders of China and the European Union jointly 
announced the conclusion of negotiations on China -EU Comprehensive Agreement on Investment. 
China has been faithfully implementing  the China -Australia FTA since its entry into force 6 years 
ago. Presently, China is negotiating the CJKFTA with Japan and Republic of Korea, China also 
negotiated FTAs with the Gulf Cooperation Council, Israel and Norway. On 16 September this year, 
China officially applied to join the CPTPP, demonstrating once again China's determination for further 
opening -up. 
2.24.   China has been offering platforms for other countries to expand their exports to China and for 
attracting investment. China has been actively openi ng domestic market to the rest of the world and 
providing better service for investment through various exhibitions and expositions. The three 
Sessions of China International Import Expo attracted close to 10,000 enterprises over the past 
three years. In 2 021, China Import and Export Fair, China International Fair for Trade in Services, 
China International Consumer Products Expo and China International Fair for Investment and Trade 
together attracted tens of thousands of enterprises from more than 200 count ries and regions to 
look for opportunities of trade and investment in China. China has also been actively boosting the 
development of cross -border e -commerce. The total imports of cross -border e -commerce reached 
570 billion yuan  RMB in 2020, up by 16.5% co mpared with that of the previous year.  
2.25.   China has created a favourable business environment for foreign investment. The new Foreign 
Investment Law  and the Regulations on the Implementation of the Foreign Investment Law  came 
into effect on 1 January 2020. Th e approval and record -filing requirements of foreign -invested 
enterprises stipulated in previous laws were removed. The "Three Laws on Foreign Investment" were 
rescinded. A foreign investment information reporting system has been introduced. The new Law 
clearly stipulates that forced technology transfer through administrative means is prohibited. China 
also had discussions with foreign -invested enterprises from the U.S., EU, Japan, Republic of Korea, 
the U nited Kingdom , etc. to help them overcome the diffic ulties in doing business in China under the 
pandemic. In this regard, Ministry of Commerce revised and published the Rules on Handling 
Complaints of Foreign -Invested Enterprises . 
2.26.   As China is accelerating its opening -up, it will continue to fully deepen ref orm. China actively 
fosters a new development paradigm with domestic circulation as the mainstay and domestic and 
international circulations reinforcing each other. China has been deepening the supply -side structural 
reform. Since 2018, in accordance with President Xi Jinping's development philosophy featuring 
innovative, coordinated, green and open development for the benefit of all, China has redoubled its 
efforts to cut overcapacity, reduce excess inventory, deleverage, lower costs and strengthen areas 
of weakness. Between 2018 and 2020, China has dissolved over 500 million ton nes of outdated coal 
production capacity. The capacity utilization rate of coal mines in production was raised to over 90%. 
China has also reduced over 150 million ton nes of crude s teel production capacity and the utilization 
rate in that capacity returned to an appropriate range of over 80%. The capacity utilization rate of 
the alumin um industry was above 85%. In July this year, a national carbon emission trading market 
was official ly launched in China. China has also promoted the endeavour of Mass Entrepreneurship 
and Innovation.  
2.27.   China is intensifying efforts to create a market -oriented, law -based and internationalized 
business environment.  
2.28.   With regard to protection of intellectual property rights, since 2018, China has amended more 
than 10 laws and regulations, such as the Patent Law, the Trademark Law and the Copyright Law. 
Meanwhile, China has actively carried out law enforcement actions to protect IPRs. China has set up 
intellect ual property courts in four cities including Beijing, and intellectual property courtrooms in 
24 cities including Nanjing. According to the survey carried out by foreign business chambers in 
China, among all the difficulties mostly faced by American and EU 's companies in China, IPR -related 
issues were the last and the third from the bottom of their respective concerns. As such, IPR is no 
longer a major difficulty for foreign businesses operating in China.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 8 - 
 
  2.29.   With regard to invigorating market entities, China issued the Regulation on Improving the 
Business Environment  in 2019. In September this year, China launched pilot projects for business 
environment innovation in six cities, including Beijing, where a large number of market entities are 
located. The Civil Code, officially implemented in 2021, clearly stipulates that the rights of the State, 
the collectives and individuals shall be equally protected by law. The Action Plan for Building a High 
standard Market System  issued this year called for strengthening t he binding force of the fair 
competition review system. Meanwhile, following the regulations on the right of state -owned 
enterprises to operate autonomously within the scope of relevant laws and regulations as prescribed 
by the Constitution of the People's  Republic of China , China steadily explores the mixed ownership 
reform of SOEs in key sectors such as power, crude oil, natural gas, railways, civil aviation, 
telecommunications and military industry.  
2.30.   China firmly safeguards the multilateral trading system  and its authority and efficacy, and 
supports necessary reform of the WTO.  
2.31.   In regard to the WTO reform, China hosted the informal ministerial meeting in Shanghai in 
November 2019. Ministers or representatives from 33 Members attended the meeting and reache d 
broad consensus. 92 Members announced the Joint Ministerial Statement on Investment Facilitation 
for Development . 
2.32.   China submitted its position papers and proposals on WTO reform. China also joined other 
Members in presenting proposals on reform of the Ap pellate Body and co -sponsored the Multi -Party 
Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA). China has actively participated in the negotiations 
on fisheries subsidies and put forward its proposals. China has worked with other Members to 
advance the discus sions and negotiations on investment facilitation, e -commerce services domestic 
regulations. China also took part in a joint statement to support MSMEs in response to COVID -19 
and actively participated in the discussion on the WTO's res ponse to the pandemic. China 
co-sponsored the Trade and Health Initiative  and actively participated in the informal dialogue on 
plastics pollution and environmentally sustainable plastics trade. China also joined discussions on 
issues such as women's economic empowerme nt and trade and environment. China is currently 
pooling efforts with other Members in a bid to achieve a successful MC12.  
2.33.   With regard to transparency, China has fully fulfilled its obligation of notification under all 
WTO Agreements. On 15 July this year, China submitted the 2019 -20 subsidy notification covering 
all provincial administrative regions and local governments at the provincial, city and county levels. 
Particularly, China notified its fisheries subsidies in a separate chapter. Right before this Review, 
China has submitted the notifications of state trading and quantitative restrictions. China is currently 
working on preparation for notification of agricultural domestic support and will submit it as soon as 
possible.  
2.34.   As the largest developing  country, China has been working with other fellow developing 
members within our capacity. China accords zero tariff treatment o n 97% of all tariff lines to 
42 LDCs. China has donated a total of USD 4.2 million under the Aid for Trade  initiative, and China  
pledged to donate USD 8 million to the WTO through the South -South Cooperation Assistance Fund. 
During the review period, the China Round Table meetings took place in Kazakhstan, Russia and 
Switzerland respectively. The 10th China Round Table within the f ramework of "China Programme" 
will be held by the end of this year. China is willing to work with other Members to help more 
countries and regions join the WTO.  
2.35.   In the area of global governance, China has been a constructive participant in trade and 
econom ic cooperation agenda such as the G20, BRICS and APEC. China has been a strong advocate 
for safeguarding the multilateral trading system, strengthening global cooperation on fighting 
against the pandemic and promoting a fairer and more reasonable global ec onomic governance 
system.  
2.36.   On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of China's accession to the WTO, we would like to 
reiterate that China is fully committed to all -round opening -up. We will turn the market of China into 
a market for the whole world, a marke t to be shared by all, and a market accessible to all. China 
stands ready to work with other Members to tackle global challenges. In particular, China strives to 
peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieves carbon neutrality before 2060. China hopes that  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 9 - 
 
  all countries, all walks of life and all peoples will be able to share the opportunities and benefits 
brought by economic globalization.  
2.37.   In conclusion, my colleagues and myself are ready to listen to  the views and comments from 
the di scussant and other M embers. Thank you  very much, Madam  Chair.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 10 - 
 
  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  The Chair of the TPRB, Ambassador Molokomme; the Minister of Commerce and the leader of 
the delegation of the People's Republic of China, Minister Wang Wentao and Vice Minister Wang 
Shouwen and his team; Ambassador Chenggang Li and his team; distinguished colleagues; it is an 
honor  and privilege  to be a discussant for the Trade Policy Review of China, one of South Africa's 
key trading and strategic partners and a fellow BRICS Member.  
3.2.  This TPR coincides with China's 20th anniversary since its accession to the WTO. China is an 
active Member of the WTO and a major contributor to the multilateral trading system ; it is also an 
active  participant, observer or negotiating its accession to some of the Plurilateral Agreements. China 
has also been active in the WTO Dispute Settlement System.  
3.3.  It is one of the countries that have managed to leverage international trade to drive long -term 
structural transformation. Since the last R eview, it has continued to diversify its economy away from 
agriculture and industry towards services, with services making up approximately 55% of GDP.  
3.4.  The outbreak of the COVID ‑19 pandemic had a major impact on Ch ina's output and employment 
and the economy contracted by 6.8% at the beginning of 2020 . However, in mid -2020, it began to 
bounce back, mainly driven by public investment and international trade. What this reveals is that 
countries are emerging from the cr isis based on their pre -COVID -19 strengths and weaknesses. As 
such, swift fiscal and monetary policy measures implemented by the Chinese Government assisted 
to stabilize the economy. The pandemic has highlighted the important role of Government in the 
economy and that the countries that have managed to get on the path of economic recovery quickly 
are countries that had the fiscal space to support economic recovery.  
Economic environment  
3.5.  In relation to the economic environment, China has been a major driver o f global growth and 
has experienced rapid economic development over the last decades. It has made remarkable 
progress on poverty alleviation as a result of high GDP growth rates and market -oriented reforms 
and lifted hundreds of millions of people out of p overty. China's GDP per capita rose to USD  11,710 
in 2020, up from USD  8,148 in 2016. Real GDP growth rates fell from just under 7% in 2016 -18 to 
6.0% in 2019 and 2.3% in 2020. Despite unprecedented poverty reduction over the past decades, 
the income gap b etween the richest and the poorest remains significant. This raises the need to 
discuss how international trade can contribute to common challenges we face, including rising 
inequality both within and between countries and in the context of the pandemic, r ising 
unemployment.  
3.6.  Growth is projected to be over 6% in 2021, as economic activities continue to normalize and 
further domestic outbreaks of COVID -19 remain under control. However, according to the IMF, risks 
of the projection are tilted to the downside, with a possible resurgence of the pandemic and a 
tightening of financial conditions.1 
3.7.  Overall, monetary policy remained prudent until early 2020. However, as a result of the 
Government's stabilizing measures to address the effects of the pandemic, the fin ancial stability 
risks increased.2 According to the IMF, these risks include a strong increase in private sector debt.  
Trade  
3.8.  China's trade policy objectives have remained largely unchanged since the previous Review. 
China seeks to further liberalize its t rade and investment regime to reshape its economy as it 
implements the 14th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development (2021 -25). 
 
1 IMF (2021), People's Republic of China: Staff Report for the 2020 Article  IV Consultation , IMF Country 
Report No.  21/6. The authorities indicate that they do not agree with various conclusions of recent IMF and 
OECD reports.  
2 IMF (2021), People's Republic of China: Staff Repo rt for the 2020 Article  IV Consultation , IMF Country 
Report No.  21/6.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 11 - 
 
  Structural reforms implemented since the previous review include the implementation of tariff cuts, 
the further opening of the financial sector with a shortening of the negative list for financial FDI, and 
the removal of restrictions on the investment quot a for foreign institutional investors.  
3.9.  China's tariff book consists of 8,580 lines at the 8 -digit level in the 2017 Harmonized System. 
Most tariff lines (87.4%) carry ad valorem tariffs; 1081 (12.6% of al l lines) were duty -free. 
Thirty -four tariff lines ( 0.4 % of all lines) carry specific rates.  
3.10.   The simple average tariff in 2021 was 7.1%, compared with 9.3% in 2017, with tariff -rate 
reductions in nearly all product categories. The average tariff is standing at 12.7%, for agriculture 
and 6.2% for NAMA from  8.5% in 2017. The percentage of tariffs that exceeded 15% was 4.5%, 
significantly lower than the 13.9% in 2017.  
3.11.   China has maintained its position as the world's second l argest importer of goods for 
12 consecutive years and accounted for 11.5% of global i mports in 2020. In order to promote 
imports, since 2018, China has hosted the China International Import Expo (CIIE) as a sign of its 
commitment to open its market to the world.  
3.12.   The Government continues to promote its vision to expand international trade,  and outward 
direct investment is considered one way to promote trade. It launched the Belt and Road Initiative 
(BRI), a critical part of its strategy to promote trade and investment, deepen cooperation and 
improve infrastructure development. In this regar d, Members have an interest to get clarity on 
transparency of loan agreements for the initiative and the trade promotion objectives of the Belt and 
Road Initiative.  
3.13.   In relation to transparency and notification obligations, during the review period, China 
submitted various notifications to the WTO. Nevertheless, some notifications, including those on 
state trading enterprises and domestic support, remain outstanding.  
3.14.   China continues to grant unilateral preferences to least developed countries (LDCs). According 
to the authorities, since 2015, it has implemented zero tariffs on 97% of taxable items for LDCs that 
have established diplomatic relations with China and completed the exchange  of diplomatic notes. 
As at end -August 2020, 39 LDCs had been given unilateral preferences.  
3.15.   In relation to FTAs, China has signed 19 free trade agreements with 26 countries or regions, 
in which over 90% of China's tariff lines are or will reduce to zero. C urrently, there are 12 ongoing 
negotiations for new FTAs or upgrading existing ones. In October 2019, the Agreement on Trade 
and Economic Cooperation between China and Eurasian Economic Union came into effect. In 
December 2020, the China -EU Comprehensive A greement on Investment negotiations were 
concluded. In addition, China is also actively participating in the Joint Statement Initiatives in the 
WTO.  
3.16.   Members are interested to get more information on the state of implementation and the 
economic impact of Ch ina's free trade agreements; its plan to join the Comprehensive and 
Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership and the state of implementation of unilateral 
preferences for least  developed countries.  
3.17.   In relation to exports, China's merchandise exp orts increased every year during the review 
period, to attain a peak of nearly USD  2.6 trillion in 2020. Exports fell in the first half of 2020 due 
to the COVID ‑19 pandemic. However, China's share of global manufacturing exports rose to a record 
high in th e second half of 2020. This is because China was the first manufacturing power to resume 
operations after the first wave of global shutdowns  and also due to its role  as the supplier of 
protective health equipment and electronics  that are  related to working from home. At over 44%, 
machinery and electrical equipment continue to represent a very large and rising share in China's 
merchandise exports.  
Investment  
3.18.   China has adopted the Foreign Investment Legislation (FIL), which aims to improve  the 
business environment for foreign investors. It streamlines the regulations and establishes a legal WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 12 - 
 
  framework for foreign investment. It ensures that foreign -invested enterprises participate in  the 
market competition on an equal basis with their domest ic counterparts, in accordance with the law.   
3.19.   China is actively expanding market access for foreign investment and has significantly 
shortened the negative list for foreign investment access. Compared with the 2017 edition, the items 
of the latest national  negative list have been reduced from 63 to 33.  
3.20.   Members have raised questions about the state of implementation of the new foreign 
investment legislation, and the impact thereof; foreign investment liberalization;  foreign investment 
protection. There are c oncerns around a forced technology transfer and a number of questions that 
Members have posed in this regard. Members would also like to know about foreign investors' access 
to incentives , especially in relation to the COVID -19 relief schemes; the function ing of the approval 
system for foreign investments and national security review; as well as the state of implementation 
of pilot free trade zones; and plans to implement a "Negative List for Cross -Border Trade in 
Services".  
Concerns by Members  
3.21.   Other concer ns raised by Members include import prohibitions maintai ned by China, as well 
as measures put in place to ensure that they are not more trade restrictive than necessary.  
3.22.   In relation to export restrictions, Members are interested in modalities for their 
implementatio n and their global implications,  including the Export Control Law, its scope of 
application and its consistency with relevant WTO principles.  
3.23.   The role of SOEs in the econo my is also an issue of interest,  including implicit support to 
SOEs; dist ortions created by SOEs and notification of state trading entities.  
3.24.   Further, Members are keen to hear China's plans to increase transparency on subsidies and 
the role and notificati on of Government Guidance Funds,  including the support granted to individu al 
industries.  
3.25.   On SPS measures, Members have raised questions about the scientific rationale on measures 
implemented to prevent the contamination of COVID -19 on exports, and future lifting of such 
measures in light of FAO guidance and the suspension of im ports of certain products to prevent 
transmission of COVID -19. There are also concerns related to Decrees 248 (Regulations on the 
Registration and Administration of Imported Food Overseas Production Enterprises) and 249 on 
(Registration and Administration of Overseas Manufactures of Imported Food), including their entry 
into force, coverage, and transition periods and the adherence to WTO transparency obligations.  
3.26.   Other concerns include customs procedures, customs valuat ion and related issues and 
antidumpin g rules and measures over the review period, among others.  
Conclusion  
3.27.   The rise of China in global trade presents both opportunit ies and challenges. In an 
inter-dependent world, it will be important to leverage China's growing importance in contributing 
to global development and in advancing an open, inclusive, mutually beneficial, balanced global 
order that promotes win -win outcomes for shared prosperity.  
3.28.   The challenge for the multilateral trading system  is how it supports the aspirations of 
developing Memb ers for inclusive growth and sustainable development and how it protects the 
development rights and policy space for developing countries . It is also important to consider how 
we ensure a multilateral trading system  that cultivates an appropriate balance between national 
development strategies and multilateral cooperation  for the interests of all. Importantly, how the 
multilateral trading system  embraces the need for countries to determine their development 
trajectory, enables Members t o climb up the development ladder and ensures that Members take 
commitments commensurate with their level of development.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 13 - 
 
  3.29.   These are important questions that are not easy to answer but important if  we are to have an 
inclusive multilateral trading system  that promotes equitable growth and development. There are 
important lessons from the journey of China that require reflection.  
3.30.   The rise of China also creates expectations about its role in t he global economy, from a 
South -South perspective, the expectation is  mutually beneficial outcomes that promote industrial 
development and structural transformation of developing countries. Importantly, a trade relationship 
that promotes value -added trade , and we see the import/export as making a contribution in that 
regard . I think all WTO Members welcome the message that was reinforced to day that China will 
approach special and differential treatment  with pragmatism and will take responsibility in the WTO 
commensurate with its level of development. I hope that this message  will result in constructive 
discussions on fisheries subsidies and broadly in discussions that relate to special and differential 
treatment in the WTO . I thank you Chair.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 14 - 
 
  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
VIET  NAM 
4.1.  Viet Nam would like to thank the d elegation of the People’s Re public of China led by 
H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce and the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive 
reports which lay the foundation for our discussion today. I would also like to express our 
appreciation to the Ch air for  her introductory remarks and the d iscussant - Her Excellency 
Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter from South Africa for her insightful comments.  
4.2.  Viet Nam associates itself with the joint ASEAN statement to be del ivered by 
Brunei  Darussalam.  
4.3.  Viet Nam ack nowledges the active contribution of China to the WTO and the world trade in 
general through its active and consistent participation in various processes ongoing in the WTO, 
including the discussions of WTO reform, negotiations on fisheries subsidies, amon g others.  
4.4.  The Chinese economy has been recognized as a major drive of global growth since its most 
recent Trade Policy Review in 2018, as noted in the WTO Secretariat’s r eport. Between 2016 and 
2018, China’s real GDP growth observed an annual rate of appro ximately 7%. Although the 
COVID -19 pandemic pushed both global and local economies into deep recession, China still 
maintained encouraging growth rates of 6% and 2.3% in 2019 an d 2020, respectively. Since 
mid-2020, China has been recovering its economy, of  which international trade is known as a 
fundamental contributor.  
4.5.  Viet Nam is pleased that China continues to be our largest trading partner. In 2020, the bilateral 
trade reached USD 133.09 billion, increasing 13.82% compared to 2019, of which exports fro m Viet 
Nam to China was USD 48.9 billion and imports from China to Viet Nam was USD 84.18 billion, a 
deficit of nearly USD 36 billion. Only in the first 8 months of 2021, Viet Nam suffered a trade deficit 
of USD 38.6 billion, an increase of 75.87% over the  same period last year. We do hope that the two 
countries could continue working closely toward a more balanced trade in the coming time.  
4.6.  Viet Nam would like to register our interests in China’s recent administrative measures for 
registration of overseas manufacturers of imported foods, which may cause unnecessary obstacles 
to trade. Although we appreciate the transparency that China has shown during the process of 
building the measures, we note that there are still further room to clarify the unclear cont ent in the 
measures and the remaining time is not sufficient for our businesses to fulfil necessary procedures 
as required. Therefore, we are looking forward to deepening engagement with China to find 
satisfactory solutions, which are of great importance t o promoting trade for the benefit of the two 
countries.  
4.7.  Last but not least, Viet Nam would also like to thank His Excellency Ambassador Li Chenggang 
and his team for their active engagement and wishes China every s uccess in its eighth Trade Policy 
Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.8.  Australia welcomes this Trade Policy Review – twenty years on from China’s accession – as an 
important opportunity to take stock of China’s contributions to the WTO and how it has aligned its 
trade policies to its WTO obligations.  
4.9.  China has bene fited significantly from the transparent and predictable access to markets that 
WTO membership offers – boosting its prosperity and furthering its integration into the global 
economy. Reliable access to the Chinese market has also greatly benefited other M embers and 
encouraged foreign investment in China. Australia has welcomed China’s growth for the better 
economic outcomes and standard of living it delivers to the people of China, across the Indo -Pacific 
region and around the globe. Australia is pleased t o have played a role in China’s economic 
development.  
4.10.   Australia also recogniz es China’s efforts to engage actively in WTO rulemaking. We welcome 
the participation of China in all Joint Statement Initiatives, and particularly welcome China’s WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 15 - 
 
  leadership in t he Investment Facilitation for Development JSI – the first major WTO initiative China 
has led in recent years. Australia also values China’s co -sponsorship of the Trade and Health 
Initiative (TAHI), the Plastics Initiative and its participation in the Mult iparty Interim Appeals 
Arbitration Arrangement.  
4.11.   China’s contribution to WTO rulemaking and reform efforts is not yet commensurate with its 
economic weight. We encourage China to play a more constructive leadership role in the WTO, 
including by relinquishi ng its access to special and differential treatment.  
4.12.   Unfortunately, since its last Review, China has increasingly tested global trade rules and 
norms by engaging in practices that are inconsistent with its WTO commitments. Australia is one of 
numerous WTO Members that has experienced this first -hand.  
4.13.   Over the past 18 months, China has increasingly implemented trade disruptive measures 
targeting a wide range of Australian products. These include increased and arbitrary border testing 
and inspections; unwarra nted delays in listing and re -listing export establishments, issuing import 
licences and other restrictions, and the imposition of unjustified anti dumping  and countervailing 
duties. Such measures have severely limited or ended Australia’s trade with China across more than 
a dozen commodities, including barley, coal, cotton, hay, logs, meat, rock lobsters and wine3. China 
has not provided satisfactory answers on how these actions align with WTO rules. We have initiated 
WTO dispute settlement proceedings in relation to China’s imposition of anti dumping  and 
countervailing duties and measures on Australian barley and wine.  
4.14.   In discussions in the WTO, China says that these actions reflect legitimate trade concerns; 
but there is a growing body of information that demonstrates China’s actions are motivated by 
political considerations.  
4.15.   As part of the large scale of trade measure s taken against Australia, there are credible reports 
that Chinese authorities have instructed importers not to purchase certain Australian products, 
contrary to WTO rules. Several official Chinese statements have directly linked these trade actions 
to wid er issues in our bilateral relationship. For example, when asked in July 2021 how Australia 
should handle relations with China, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry said: “We will not 
allow any country to reap benefits from doing business with China  while groundlessly accusing and 
smearing China and undermining China’s core interests based on ideology.”  
4.16.   WTO rules do not permit a Member – however large – to impose conditions such as these on 
trade with another Member.  
4.17.   The implications of China’s acti ons go beyond their impact on Australian exporters - they raise 
the risk and uncertainty of the China market for the global business community. By undermining 
agreed trade rules China also undermines the multilateral trading system on which all WTO Members  
rely. These rules have underpinned Members’ growth and prosperity for decades. They protect the 
rights of Members regardless of their size and power.  China has assured Members of its commitment 
to the rules -based order; but from our viewpoint there is a growing gap between China’s rhetoric 
and its actions.  
4.18.   Australia believes an adherence to market -oriented policies underpins membership of the 
WTO. Australia notes the earlier progress that China had made on this front, including its reduction 
of tariff rat es on imports, the elimination of many non -tariff barriers, and efforts to open up the 
Chinese economy to foreign investment.  
4.19.   We are concerned, however, that market -oriented reforms have not progressed since 
Australia raised its concerns during China’s 20 18 Review, including the need to embrace market -
oriented principles to ensure exporters, consumers and domestic producers can fully benefit from 
the multilateral trading system. We note t he Secretariat’s report recogniz ed that China’s 
 
3 China’s measures have severely limited Australia’s trade with China of barley, coal, copper ores and 
concentrates, cotton, hay, logs, rock lobsters, sugar and wine; and also hindered o r disrupted Australia’s trade 
with China of other commodities, including beef, citrus fruit, grains, and table grapes. Further, China has 
limited Australia’s market access for dairy, infant formula and meat, among other commodities.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 16 - 
 
  State -Owned Enterpris es, and their high rate of financial support, may affect the functioning of 
market -oriented polic ies in China.  
4.20.   China’s businesses stand to make greater gains through further reform. Chinese importers of 
Australian goods are negatively impacted by the Chine se Government’s reported interventions in 
commercial decision -making – a practice that contravenes market principles. It is critical that 
enterprises make their own purchasing decisions to enable open, market -based trade. Australia 
therefore urges China to  adhere more closely to market -oriented principles in its approach to trade 
policy.  
4.21.   We also encourage China to comply fully with the letter and spirit of its transparency 
commitments. Despite assurances in the Chinese  Government report that it has “fully f ulfilled”  its 
notification obligations, we note the Secretariat’s report identified outstanding notifications. Meeting 
one’s transparency obligations provides other Members and traders with visibility and confidence 
that a Member is complying with WTO comm itments. Australia remains concerned with the quality 
and timeliness of China’s notifications, especially for industrial subsidies and agricultural domestic 
support. China’s large subsidy programs, along with other non -market  practices, distort global 
markets for major commodities. Improving the transparency of China’s policies would strengthen its 
contribution to the multilateral trading system.  
4.22.   Australia urges China to fully align its trade policies with its WTO obligations, for the benefit 
of all. We loo k forward to reviewing China’s answers to our questions carefully.  
PAKISTAN  
4.23.   Pakistan warmly welcomes the virtual presence of the Chinese delegation led by His Excellency 
Minister Wang Wentao, and Vice Minister Wang Shouwen and their delegation in Geneva to  this 
eighth Trade Policy Review of China.  
4.24.   Let me also, at the outset, thank Her Excellency Ambassador Xolelwa  Mlumbi -Peter for her 
very insightful comments to kick off the discussion today.  
4.25.   I also wish to thank the Secretariat for their hard work.  
4.26.   Bilateral relations between Pakistan and China have been well established and deeply 
entrenched over decades of cooperation in virtually every sphere of national activity – economy, 
trade, investment, energy, transport to name a few.  
4.27.   China is one of the big gest and most important trading partners for Pakistan. Since both 
countries inked a Free Trade Agreement in 2006, bilateral trade has steadily increased from around 
USD 5 billion to approximately USD 18 billion in 2020. While the trade balance remains in f avour of 
China, Pakistan’s exports have been witnessing an increase, particularly since the signing of Phase 
II of the China -Pakistan Free Trade Agreement in 2020.  
4.28.   China’s is an exceptional story – a story that has continued its success during the review 
period of the current TPR. Through the implementation of a new developmental paradigm, China 
has remarkably lifted out of poverty, all of its remaining 100 million rural people living below the 
poverty line. China has met the target of poverty eradication s et by the UN 2030 Agenda for 
Sustainable Development a good 10 years ahead of schedule!  
4.29.   Not only has China’s development strategy benefit ed China’s own people, but its open a nd 
unique approach of pursuing “shared prosperity” and “trade for peace”  through regional connectivity 
has opened new channels for trade and investment. During the review period, China has made new 
investments worth hundreds of billions of US dollars in economic and trade cooperation with 
countries in its Belt and Road Initiat ive. This is a prime example of South -South cooperation and 
signifies the philosophy of a shared, mutually advantageous and effective development strategy 
adopted by China.  
4.30.   Pakistan is a key partner in Belt and Road Initiative through the China -Pakistan Ec onomic 
Corridor (CPEC). This is the largest investment initiative in Pakistan across various sectors of the 
economy to the tune of USD 56 billion. Not only has Pakistan seen collaborative investment in rail, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 17 - 
 
  road connectivity and sustainable energy infrast ructure, but it is  expected to generate about 
2.5 million jobs through setting up nine Special Economic Zones across Pakistan. What is most 
important to note, is that such initiatives carry an effective developmental approach for both sides 
involving key j oint-ventures, transfer of technology, building of technological capabilities and a long -
term vision of sustainable prosperity for the people.  
4.31.   Here I would like to share my personal experience from 2018. While I was Secretary for 
Commerce and Industries D epartment in the province of Punjab, we set up joi ntly with the Chinese, 
Pakistan’s first Skills’  Development University to lead and enhance quality amongst the various 
existing technical and vocational institutes across the province. This intervention is expected to be 
a tremendous help in improving industrial productivity and competitiveness.  
4.32.   Under the development of the deep-sea port at Gwadar in the South W est of Pakistan, various 
collaborative initiatives are already under way in partnership with China . Once complete, Gawadar 
promises to become a central hub of trading activity in the region, and would be home to various 
infrastructural developments in the region.  
4.33.   The key difference in China’s development philosophy is a broader reali zation of shared 
prosperity and collective developmental goals. For this reason, sharing of technical know -how and 
critical technology has not been lacking. China’s current trade policy review period overlaps with one 
of the worst crises in human history – the COVID -19 pande mic. During this crucial time, Pakistan 
faced tremendous challenges in vaccine availability for its large population. China not only donated 
millions of doses of the Sinopharm, but has actively partnered with the National Institute of Health 
in Pakistan to  diversify its production.  
4.34.   While China has made tremendous progress in record time, poverty and sustainable 
development continue to pose challenges to the largest population on the planet. In this regard, 
China has shown commendable commitment to the adop tion of sustainable technologies with one 
eye on the future – both of its people and that of the planet. China’s emphasis on the adoption of 
green technologies and renewable energy such as the green and low -carbon energy target in its 
13th Five -Year Plan f or Energy Development coupled with digital development, show a meaningful 
commitment to a futuristic approach to development – and a role model for many countries to follow.  
4.35.   We would be remiss in this TPR without commenting on China’s proactive leadership role in 
WTO – particularly its support for upholding the pillars of multilateralism. Pakistan has worked closely 
with the Chinese Mission on several aspects in the interest of safeguarding the rights and privileges 
of developing countries in this Organizat ion, both under the able leadership of His Excellency Mr. Li 
Chenggang and former Ambassador Zhang Xiangchen. China’s important contribution on all fronts 
and in every activity of the WTO including its contributions for technical assistance are highly 
appreciable.  
4.36.   While the world is still reeling from the devastating effects of the COVID -19 pandemic, we 
cannot underscore the importance of collaborative approaches to development through meaningful 
strategies that can lift millions out of poverty and pave the  way for sustainable industrial strategies 
for the future. In his regard, there are very valuable lessons to be learn ed from China’s trade policy, 
both for developing and developed countries, particularly in the period under review. Therefore, 
members shou ld find ways to continue to support China’s progress as an exer cise in collective 
prosperity. Anything but support to China’s progress could have wider consequences for the global 
economy.  
4.37.   We thank once again, the Chinese G overnment and their TPR team both  joining from capital 
and in Geneva for presenting their Trade policy for review and for their continued support for the 
true objectives of trade and development at the WTO. We wish China a very successful and fruitful 
TPR. 
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.38.   I am pleased to participate in the 8th TPR of China and engage in a frank discussion on its 
trade policy. I would like to extend a warm welcome to the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr. Wang 
Wentao, Minister of Commerce, thank the Government and the WTO Secretariat for  their WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 18 - 
 
  comprehensive reports, as well as the discussant, H.E. Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (South Africa) for 
her thoughtful remarks.  
4.39.   Let me start by pointing out that this year our countries are celebrating an important date - 
the 20th anniversary of signing of the Russian -Chinese Treaty of Good Neighbourliness  and Friendly 
Cooperation, which was extended in June 2021 for another 5 years. The treaty sets out an ambitious 
agenda of bilateral political, investment, scientific, technical, humanitarian and, of cou rse, trade and 
economic cooperation.  
4.40.   China remains one of Russia's most important trading partners. Our trade ties demonstrated 
impressive resilience during the COVID -19 pandemic with a slight decrease in turnover by 6.7%. 
Since the beginning of the year, bilateral trade has already recuperated, growing by almost a third 
(29.1%). By the end of 2021, we hope to reach the historical maximum of over USD 120 billion.  
4.41.   Even in these challenging times, we’ve managed to continue fostering the development of 
invest ment cooperation. Joint projects – with the overall value of over USD 90 billion – are being 
implemented in sustainable and green development, artificial intelligence, e -commerce, electronic 
document management, as well as the creation of an international s cientific lunar station. We 
consider the high level of cooperation between Russian and Chinese companies as an indicator of 
mutual trust, which is highly appreciated by Russia.  
4.42.   China continues to be an important partner for Russia in e -commerce. Last year,  the volume 
of cross -border e -commerce exceeded 325 billion roubles . Enabling a conducive environment, 
including with a view to foster the growth of Russia’s e -marketplace and e -commerce platforms, is 
thus of particular importance to us.  
4.43.   New areas and formats for further cooperation have emerged, including at the regional level. 
The Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement between China and the EAEU and its Member 
States (entered into force in October 2019) has set the stage for the develo pment of cooperation at 
the EAEU level.  
4.44.   To sum up, Russia sees many new opportunities to widen and diversify our trade and 
investment relationship with China. Thus, we attach great importance and attention to the trade 
regime of China and continuous effor ts of Chinese authorities to improve their trade policies and 
practices making them more transparent, accountable and non -discriminatory. We are pleased to 
see China's tangible steps in such areas as trade facilitation, liberalization of trade in services and 
investments.  
4.45.   We look forward to further development of Chinese trade policy, enhancing a comfortable, 
stable and predictable regulatory environment for business, in particular, in areas related to 
innovation and technologies, IPR, transparency, e -comm erce, TBT and SPS, as well as matters 
related to ensuring favourable  market environment.  
4.46.   Russia commends China for the important leadership role in the WTO. We highly appreciate 
and share Beijing's continuous support for multilateral trading system as embo died in the WTO, 
which is consistently voiced in BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, G20, APEC and other 
international fora.  
4.47.   Russia strongly supports China’s efforts in combat ing protectionism and emerging forms of 
discrimination, especially in the form of unilateral measures that are highly destructive for the global 
economy, as they disrupt international trade, lead to a breach of mutual trust and unravel business 
relationships. Global cooperation is especially important in the present times, domin ated by the 
common goal of combat ing the adverse effects of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.48.   We look forward to working together on the WTO reform issues. Russia strongly supports 
China’s efforts to safeguard the two -tier dispute settlement system.   
4.49.    The Russian F ederation appreciates China's active involvement in a wide range of activities 
at the WTO, including under the framework of JSIs. We also welcome the establishment of an 
Informal WTO Dialogue on Plastics. Russia has joined this initiative and we look forwa rd to 
constructive cooperation in this area.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 19 - 
 
  4.50.   Lastly, we thank the Chinese delegation for providing comprehensive answers to advance 
written questions, submitted by the Russian Federation.  
4.51.   To conclude, as China describes in its Government report, I quote, " China is committed to 
promoting mutual opening -up featuring shared benefits, shared responsibilities, and shared 
governance and  building an open world economy ". We sincerely wish China all success on that path.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.52.   I would like to start by extending a warm welcome to China’s delegation led by H.E. Mr. Wang 
Wentao, Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, as well as to thank H.E. Ambassador 
Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter for her valuable observations as a discussant. Once more, the Secre tariat has 
provided us with a su bstantive contribution to this R eview. I would like to commend them for their 
effort, notably in referring to extensive and diversified sources, including OECD studies.  
4.53.   It is a great pleasure for me to take the floor on thi s occasion, China being a relevant economic 
player for all of us. It has been more than 10 years now that China became Switzerland’s first trading 
partner in Asia, and its third most important trading partner after the EU and the USA. Our shared 
ambition t o further intensify our economic cooperation resulted in the conclusion of a bilateral free 
trade agreement in 2013. What has been achieved meanwhile? Two figures can be mentioned: the 
volume of trade between both countries exceeds USD 32 billion, and dire ct investments by Swiss 
companies in China are close to USD 24 billion.  
4.54.   We welcome this intensification our economic relations. China has shown remarkable 
resilience in the face of the health crisis and its economy has been characterized by high growth 
rates despite the challenging context. At the same time, important achievements have been made 
in poverty reduction.  
4.55.   In recent years, specific reforms have been undertaken. Let me highlight the most important 
ones.  
• First of all, Switzerland wishes to congr atulate China for substantive developments regarding 
intellectual property. Just to mention a few of them, we welcome in particular the 
strengthening of patent protection and enforcement, namely through the introduction of 
patent term extension and patent linkage. Further, the legal framework has been improved 
with regard to trade secrets as well as trademarks, where China is undertaking important 
efforts to curb bad -faith registrations. We encourage China to undertake further efforts to 
continue strengthen ing its IP Regime.  
• Second, we would like to commend China on the successful establishment of a single window 
system for customs clearance. China is fully implementing the TFA, ahead of schedule.  
• Thirdly, let me express our appreciation for China’s active role in the WTO and its 
participation in several plurilateral discussion streams and Joint Statement Initiatives.  
4.56.   To ensure an even more comprehensive integration of China into the WTO system, we support 
its accession to the GPA. Switzerland will continue to engage in this process in a constructive way.  
4.57.   We also note improvements with regard to the Chinese Foreign Investment regime. However , 
we encourage China to increase the predictability of conditions for investments and to undertake 
further liberalizati on efforts.  
4.58.   Today’s discussion is also an opportunity to raise some of our concerns, notably in the field of 
transparency. Switzerland regrets that notifications on key topics such as subsidies and quantitative 
restrictions, among others, are outstanding. Let me state it: tra nsparency is a fundamental, 
non-negotiable principle of WTO rules. Transparency ensures predictability of the trading 
environment.  
4.59.   Transparency is also fundamental in the context of State -Owned Enterprises. For such 
enterprises, which are very numerous and important in the Chinese economy, China should make 
sure that market -oriented principles are followed. Switzerland would be interested to know more 
about the Chinese G overnment’s intentio ns to ensure appropriate governance of State -Owned 
Enterprises.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 20 - 
 
  4.60.   Transparency means for economic operators to fulfil their due -diligence obligations along their 
global value chains. We call upon China to permit access for such inspections.  
4.61.   We have submitt ed some additional questions in writing and look forward to receiving 
clarification also on those. As initially mentioned, trade relations with China are among the most 
important for Switzerland. No later than las t September, Swiss and Chinese G overnment a nd 
business representatives have met in the framework of the Switzerland -China Joint Economic 
Commission. Among other issues raised, the Swiss private sector pointed out problems faced in 
accessing the Chinese market. Given the size of the Chinese market, some policy issues such as 
market access, subsidies and transparency become of major systemic importance. Therefore, 
compliance with WTO rules seems all the more important to us and we are convinced of their benefits 
for all.  
4.62.   We wish China constructive an d fruitful ex changes in the context of this Trade Policy R eview.  
NORTH  MACEDONIA  
4.63.   North Macedonia is pleased to take part in the eight Trade Policy Review of China. We would 
like to welcome the delegation of China and the WTO Secretariat for the submitted report, and also 
our gratitude goes to H.E. Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for the insightful comments .  
4.64.   We noticed in the Report that in early 2020 China's economy contracted by 6.8 % and virtually 
all sectors were severely hit by the COVID -19 pan demic, with the notable exceptions of financial 
services and information technology. Since mid -2020, the economy began to recover, mainly driven 
by public investments and international trade. Swift fiscal and monetary policy reactions helped 
mitigate t he economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. China's GDP real growth rates fell from 
6.0% in 2019 to 2.3 % in 2020. Despite the slowdown in growth rates, China continues to be a major 
driver of global growth and its convergence with advanced economies continues . Rapid economic 
development over the last decades, induced by market -oriented reforms, lifted hundreds of millions 
of people out of poverty.  
4.65.   As outlined in Five -Year Plans and various Administrative Measures, China continued to aim 
at expanding internati onal trade and investments. Efforts to address climate change issues were 
also noticeable within China's trade policy framework. The main ongoing actions in this regard 
included industrial restructuring, energy structure optimization, energy conservation a nd efficiency, 
and the establishment of a carbon emissions trading market.  
4.66.   The bilateral economic and trade cooperation between North Macedonia and China is 
permanently developing and China represents one of the major partners in our bilateral trade. 
Curre ntly China ranks 5th in terms of bilateral trade and for the first 7 months of this year has 
reached the highest volume of trade with North Macedonia. During this period, the bilateral trade 
increased by 21.2 % as compared to the same period previous year.  
4.67.   Based on the bilateral Agreement on trade and economic cooperation, we are planning to 
have a regular Joint Committee meeting by the end of this year or early next year to discuss 
economic and trade issues of interest for both sides.  
4.68.   To better understand  the latest development of China’s tr ade policy, we have submitted 
5 written questions. We appreciate the replies provided by China, which will be duly studied by us.   
4.69.   To conclude, we wish this Review a complete success.  
ISRAEL  
4.70.   Israel would like to welcome the delegation of the People's Republic of China headed by 
Minister of Commerce, Mr.  Wang Wentao. On this occasion, we would also like to congratulate our 
colleagues of the Chinese Mission in Geneva headed by Ambassador Li for their efforts. Finall y, we 
would like to thank Ambassador Ms. Xolelwa  Mlumbi -Peter (South Africa) for her  insightful views on 
this Review shared as d iscussant.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 21 - 
 
  4.71.   China’s share in global trade has risen from 4.7% in 2001, the year of its accession to the 
WTO, to approx. 15% in 20 20. However, during the period under review, China's economic growth 
slowed down; real GDP growth rates fell from just under 7.0% in 2016 to 2018 to around 6.0% in 
2019 and down to 2.3% in 2020, most of which is likely due to the COVID -19 pandemic. 
Notwith standing, China's GDP per capita jumped to USD 11,710 in 2020, and its reliance on services 
now accounts for over 55% of its GDP.  
4.72.   China's accession to the WTO in 2001 has been a significant milestone for the WTO and 
multilateralism as a whole. It brought many benefits to China, but at the same time, it resulted in 
increased responsibilities and expectations for China. With great power comes great responsibility.  
4.73.   Over the last three decades, Israel and China have developed close ties, with a strong 
emphasis on trade, leading to China becoming Israel's third  largest global trading partner. We are 
convinced this trend will continue for Israel and China and between China and many other WTO 
Members.  
4.74.   Bilateral trade continues to rise steadily, having surp assed $15 billion US dollars in 2020, 
notwithstanding the pandemic. Israeli exports to China consist of minerals and chemicals; medical 
equipment and pharmaceuticals; and electric machinery, among other goods. On the other hand, 
the leading imports from Ch ina into Israel are mechanical and electric machinery, textile and 
footwear, metals, stone, and glass.  
4.75.   As also mentioned in the reports, China and Israel are currently in the process of FTA 
negotiations, we believe that an FTA, once finalized, would furth er facilitate trade between our 
countries and contribute to the enhancement of our bilateral cooperation and dialogue. Israel has 
submitted questions related to import licenses, standards and technical regulations, and government 
procurement and we look fo rward to receiving China's responses. Nonetheless, the report covers a 
wide range of other important areas and developments in China’s trade policy and we are looking 
forward to reviewing replies by China to all other Members' questions.  
4.76.   Israel is current ly collaborating with China in many areas at the WTO. For example, we are 
both parties of the JSI on e -commerce, as well as the JSI on Domestic Regulation.  
4.77.   As we are nearing MC12, Israel looks forward to China’s leadership, contributions, and 
constructive role towards a successful Ministerial.  
4.78.   Finally, Israel looks forward to continuing our collaboration with the Chinese delegation 
headed by Ambassador LI.  
4.79.   Israel wish es China every success in this e ight Trade Policy Review.  
THAILAND  
4.80.   Let me begin by saying “ 大家好”. 
4.81.   At the outset, Thailand is delighted to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review of China and 
would like to extend our warm welcome to the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, 
Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China.  
4.82.   We w ould also like to thank Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa, for her 
contribution as a discussant  today, as well as the Chinese G overnment and the WTO Secretariat for 
preparing the comprehensive reports.  
4.83.   We fully associate itself with the ASEAN  statement made by Ambassador of Brunei 
Darussalam. Thailand , as a Country Coordinator for ASEAN -China trade dialogue relations, applauds 
the sustained robust and growing levels of trade and investment flows between 10 ASEAN Member 
States and China. We are  confident that ASEAN -China economic ties will be strengthened once we 
begin further liberalization of trade in goods, and investment liberalization and protection, as 
outlined in the Future Work Program under the ASEAN -China FTA Upgrade Protocol.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 22 - 
 
  4.84.   In respe ct of bilateral relationship, Thailand and China have enjoyed a long cherished 
diplomatic tie for nearly 50 years, dating back to 1975. Since then, the two countries have developed 
the multi -dimensional partnership, and such strong bonds have still grown s tronger.  
4.85.   On the trade front, China has been Thailand's largest trading partner since 2013. In 2020, 
Thailand is China's 12th largest trading partner, with a bilateral trade value of approximately 
USD 98 billion, increasing 7.7% from 2019. Electric machiner y, chemicals, computers and parts, as 
well as fresh, frozen, and dried fruit, dominate trade between the two countries.  
4.86.   On the investment front, China has remained Thailand's largest foreign investor for the last 
three years (2017 -2019), increasing its inv estment by 208% from USD 0.9 billion in 2017 to 
USD 8.42 billion in 2019 and continuing to step up.  
4.87.   Despite the fact that the COVID -19 pandemic has been relentlessly jeopardizing our economic 
stability and the global economy at large, Thailand and China ha ve continued to benefit from a 
well-established and long standing  economic partnership, demonst rated by our full -fledged 
ASEAN -China FTA, shared benefits along the Belt and Road Initiative, effective use of digital 
technology and innovations, and the impending implementation of the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP), which Thailand appreciates China's efforts in being the first 
non-ASEAN signatories to ratify the RCEP Agreement.  
4.88.   We highly appreciate China's efforts to make available it s vaccines to Thailand in the early 
days of our combat against  COVID -19, and China continues  to assist even today.  
4.89.   Thailand welcomes China's expansion of its Free Trade Agreement network and takes note 
China's application to join the Comprehensive and Prog ressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP) in September 2021.   
4.90.   The TPR Review this year is particularly significant because it marks C hina's 20th anniversary 
of WTO M embership. We value China's participation in the WTO since 2001 and recogniz e the vital 
role China plays in supporting the multilateral trading system.  
4.91.   This is evident by its active participation in all aspects of the WTO's work, prominent role in 
various regular bodies, commitment to the WTO ongoing negotiations, including its e fforts to 
advance issues such as Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs) on E -Commerce, Investment Facilitation, 
MSMEs, and Services Domestic Regulation, Plastic pollution as well as the WTO’s response to the 
pandemic.  
4.92.   Thailand also commends China's ongoing re form efforts, as outlined in the 14th Five -Year Plan 
for Economic and Social Development (2021 -2025), through China's trade policy framework in 
several areas, including continuously improving trade liberalization and facilitation, implementing a 
more proac tive import policy, reducing overall customs clearance time for imports nationwide, 
reforming the IP regime, and amending the legislative framework for SPS -related issues.  
4.93.   However, Thailand remains deeply concerned about SPS issues, and we have submitted 
questions about this concern. We also attach great importance to smooth agriculture trade, given 
that China is currently Thailand's largest destination of Thai fruits. We encourage China to improve 
and facilitate border trade by increasing the number of po rts and perishable products traffic lanes 
at each port, especially during high season.  
4.94.   In this R eview, Thailand has submitted a number of questions on various areas of China's 
trade and economic policy, and we thank China for responding to our questions a nd look forward to 
thoroughly reviewing them.  
4.95.   Lastly, Thailand wishes the Chinese delegation a successful Trade Policy Review and looks 
forward to strengthening our partnership at all levels.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.96.   I would start by extending a warm welcome to the Chinese delegation led by Minister Wang  
Wentao,  Minister of Commerce of China.  I would also like to thank Ambassador Xolelwa  Mlumbi -Peter WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 23 - 
 
  of South Africa for shari ng with us her insights as the d iscussant, a nd the Secretariat for preparing 
the comprehensive report s for this R eview.  
4.97.   Hong Kong, China maintains a very close economic and trade relationship with the Mainland 
of China, which has been our larges t trading partner for decades. In 2020, we were the fou rth largest 
trading partner of the Mainland of China and the largest source of its realiz ed foreign direct 
investment, accounting for more than half of the total.   
4.98.   As China is one of the largest economies in the world, its trade policy has significant imp act 
on international  trade and the global economy. We appreciate  the progress of trade liberaliz ation 
and facilitation efforts that have been undertaken by China in recent years.   
4.99.   We also appreciate China’s firm commitment to supporting and strengthening the rules -based 
multilateral trading system. At a time when the WTO is facing unprecedented challenges and global 
trade is striving to recover from the pandemic, this is the commitment and engagement that are 
mostly needed from every Member o f the WTO.  
4.100.   We thank China for being the coordinator of the Friends of Investment Facili tation for 
Development (FIFD). We look forward to working closely with China and other like -minded Members 
to further develop the framework for investment facilitation, with a view to working towards a 
concrete outcome at MC12.  
4.101.   We have the following observations on China’s trade policies.  
4.102.   On trade facilitation, China ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) in 
September 2015 and notified the majority of its commitments in Category A , with the rest in 
Category B. China fully implemented the TFA ahead of its original schedule in February 2020 and 
has also duly submitted all TFA transparency notifications.  In the Committee on Trade Facilitation, 
China has shared  its experience on implementation of the TFA in May 2018, AEO programme in 
October 2018, single window in October 2019 and accelerated implement ation of the TFA in 
June 2021. We appreciate China’s contribution to promoting trade facilitation.  
4.103.   We are please d to note that China has introduced further trade facilitation measures during 
the review period, such as implementation of paperless application for import and export licenses 
and customs clearance, reduction of number of documents required for customs pr ocess, a new 
“two-step declaration” system to improve efficiency of customs clearance and accelerate cargo 
release, and reduction of tariff lines subject to import supervision inspection requirements.   
4.104.   Meanwhile, China continues to maintain its Authori zed Economic Operator Programme and 
signed Mutual Recognition Arrangem ents with 43 trading partners. China has also enhanced its 
National Single Window by providing extra service functions and increasing the number of connected 
ministries and commissions from 11 in 2018 to 25 in 2020. The National Single Window, fully 
operational since 2019, is now processing 100% of China’s customs declaration services.  
4.105.   According to the time release study conducted in 2021, the overall clearance time for imports 
and exports i n China has been reduced by 61.9% and 86.4% respectively as co mpared with 2017. 
Hong Kong, China commends China’s continued efforts in facilitating trade.  
4.106.   Turning to tariff. It is commendable that China has bound all of its tariff lines, with 87.4% 
of its tariffs being ad valorem duties and an average bound rate of  9.6%. There is also a decrease 
in simple average applied MFN rate from 9.3% in 2017 to 7.1% in 2021, together with a substantial 
reduction in international tariff peak from  13.9% in 2017 to 4.5% in 2021.  China’s determination in 
its tariff liberali zation is noteworthy and we look forward to its continuous efforts.  
4.107.   While we are pleased to note the decrease in China’s average applied MFN tariff on 
agricultural products from 14.8% in 2017 to 12.7% in  2021, we also note that it is still higher than 
that on non -agricultural products (at 6.2%). So far as tariffs are concerned, the agriculture sector 
continues to be relatively protected, compared with  the non -agricultural sectors. During the review 
period , China continued to maintain tariff rate quotas on 44 tariff lines of agricultural products 
including wheat, corn,  rice, sugar, wool and cotton. We would encourage China to further liberali ze 
trade in its agricultural sector.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 24 - 
 
  4.108.   Hong Kong, China appreci ates China’s efforts in harmoniz ing its technical regulations with 
international standards with a view to facilitating free flow of t rade with its trading partner. We note 
that the proportion of mandatory standards in China which are adoptions or adaptations of  
international standards has increased from 74.3% at end -2017 to 92.4% at end -2020.   
4.109.   Hong Kong, China also appreciates that China is revising its government procurement laws 
to enhance the transparency, quality and efficiency of its government procurement . We welcome 
the fact that China has taken into consideration green procurement, e -procurement and SME 
participation in amending its administrative measures on government procurement.  
4.110.   We are also pleased to note China’s continuous effort in its negotiatio n on accession to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), with the circulation of its sixt h revised market access 
offer. We look forward to further constructive communications between China and GPA Parties to 
resolve the remaining issues in the accessi on process.  
4.111.   The service s sector now make s up 55% of Chi na’s GDP, up from 51% in 2015. The 
fastest -growing service sectors during the review period include information transmission, software 
and information technology; and  leasing and business services.  China also seeks to widen market 
access for foreign investment by, among other things, loosening foreign investment restrictions in 
various sectors such  as manufacturing and finance. We appreci ate China’s efforts in liberaliz ing its 
service sectors and lo ok forward to its continued liberali zation with a view to achieving its vision of 
expanding international trade.  
4.112.   Hong Kong, China always treasures the Mainland of China as a valuable trading partner. We 
look forward to further fostering our bilateral trade  and economic relations and will work closely with 
China and other Members to pursu e further global trade liberalization under the WTO framework. 
We thank China for the written replies to our questions and wish China a very s uccessful Trade Policy 
Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.113.   Let me start by welcoming the Chinese delegation, headed by His Excellency Minister Wang 
Wentao, and by thanking the Chinese Mission to the WTO, headed by Ambassador Li Chenggang, 
for its efforts and contributions to this important exercise. I would  also like to express our 
appreciation to the Chin ese G overnment and to the WTO Secretariat for their reports, as well as to 
the discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, for her insightful observations.  
4.114.   China is Brazil’s largest trading partner. In 200 9, it became Brazil’s major export market; in 
2012, Brazil’s main source of imported goods. Brazil -China bilatera l trade reached a record of 
USD 102.6 billion in 2020, with a surplus of USD 33 billion for Bra zil. Between January and 
August  2021, our bilate ral trade with China was valued at USD 93.8 billion - a 35% increase as 
compared to the same period last year.  
4.115.   To give a few examples, Brazil’s exports of beef to China increased by 74% in volume in 
2020, to a value of USD 4 billion. Brazil is now China’s main supplier of bovine meat. Brazil also 
continues to be China’s main source of soybeans, supplying 63% of China’s imports of this product. 
Iron ore and crude oil are also important items in our exports to China. Brazil, in turn, imports a 
large variety o f manufactured goods from China.  
4.116.   Since the beginning of 2019, Brazil and China concluded a number of important agreements 
on sanitary and phytosanitary issues, including for the export of thermoprocessed bovine meat from 
Brazil. Nevertheless, we strongly b elieve that further progress can be made in this area, as for 
example in the recognition by China of Brazil’s status as free of foot and mouth disease, and as a 
"negligible risk" country for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, as well as in the signature of 
protocols for the export of soybean protein, corn, ginger and other agricultural products.  
4.117.   There are other important topics that continue to require our attention. The vast majority of 
Brazilian exports to China is still made up of commodities. Brazilian e xports to other markets - such 
as Latin America, the United States and the European Union - show a much higher participation of 
industrial products. The composition of our exports to China does not reflect the diversification of 
Brazil’s economy. Action to  encourage greater export diversification remains a priority for our WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 25 - 
 
  government. We look forward to continuing our joint efforts with China in order to promote the 
expansion and more balanced diversification of bilateral trade flows.  
4.118.   The importance of our bilateral relations continues to expand beyond trade. According to 
data from our Ministry of Economy, China has been the second largest foreign investor in Brazil from 
2003 to the third quarter of 2019. China is the main external source of investment in Br azil’s 
Investment Partnerships Program, being responsible now for about one quarter of all potential 
foreign investment contemplated in the Program. Chinese investment has been mainly directed to 
electric energy, oil extraction, transportation, telecommuni cation and financial services. At the same 
time, some important Brazilian companies have invested in China, in sectors that include mining, 
banking, meat processing, aircraft and construction.  
4.119.   The Secretariat report notes some positive developments since C hina’s last Trade Policy 
Review. For example, the number of restrictive measures on access to foreign investment has been 
reduced from 63 in 2017 to 33 in 2020. China’s simple average applied MFN rate decreased to 7.1% 
in 2021, with tariff -rate reductions in nearly all product categories. Some liberalization steps were 
taken in the mining sector to allow increased foreign participation, and China continued to liberalize 
its financial sector.  
4.120.   At the same time, the Secretariat noted that, with respect to ince ntives and financial support 
to different sectors and industries, it could not have a clear overall picture on the basis of notifications 
submitted to the WTO and replies provided by China to questions from other Members. The 
Secretariat also notes that in formation on subsidies going beyond the 2019 notification was not 
made available. Some notifications remain outstanding, including those on state trading enterprises 
and domestic support. In this respect, the Secretariat points out that China’s most recent  domestic 
support notification to the WTO covers the period up to 2016, and its notification under the Subsidies 
Agreement covers the period up to 2018.  
4.121.   We encourage China to update its notifications, including with respect to agricultural 
domestic support . 
4.122.   China is a key player in the WTO, and Brazil values China’s expressions of commitment to 
the preservation and the strengthening of the multilateral trading system. At the BRICS summit last 
month, the leaders of the BRICS countries, including Brazil and Chi na, stated their support for a 
transparent, rules -based, open, inclusive and non-discriminatory  multilateral trading system, with 
the WTO at its core, and in this regard reiterated their support "for the necessary and urgent reform 
which would, inter alia,  preserve the centrality, core values and fundamental principles of the WTO 
and consider the interests of all members, including developing countries and LDCs, recognizing that 
the majority of the WTO members are developing countries".  
4.123.   In this spirit, Braz il looks forward to continuing its engagement with China and other 
Members towards a successful outcome at MC12 this year.  
4.124.   Brazil has submitted a number of questions in this Trade Policy Review. These questions 
addressed topics like telecommunications infr astructure, government support for civil aircraft, digital 
currency, the Belt and Road Initiative, import promotion, e -commerce, and others. We thank China 
for its written replies, which were forwarded to our capital for examination and follow -up. 
4.125.   In concl usion, Brazil wishes China a very successful and productive Trade Policy Review.  
JAPAN  
4.126.   The year 2021 marks t he 20th anniversary of China’s M embership in the WTO. For its eighth 
Trade Policy Review, Japan welcomes the delegation of China, led by H.E. Mr. Wa ng Wentao, Minister 
of Commerce, and Ambassador Li Chenggang. Japan takes note that China reiterates, in its 
Government report, its support for the multilateral trading system (MTS), as well as its intention to 
realize a market -oriented, rule -based and ope n business environment.  
4.127.   It can be said that China is among the countries that benefit most from the MTS in terms of 
achieving economic development. We expect China to take on the full responsibilities commensurate 
with its current standing. In this connec tion, Japan is concerned by the increase, since the last TPR, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 26 - 
 
  in non -transparent and discriminatory measures and practices in China. Today, we would like to 
share our observations and concerns, with the expectation that this TPR will encourage China to tak e 
actions further that truly contribute to maintaining and strengthening the MTS.  
4.128.   Let me start with the main challenge facing the WTO system today  — namely, the issues 
concerning the level playing field. A fair and market -based, competitive environment is the premise 
for the WTO system and the implementation of its agreements, and we believe that the presence of 
China in this environment is indispensable and hope that China will begin to engage with this major 
challenge. Today, we would like to take up four  issues: transparency, market distorting measures, 
state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and the lack of clarity in laws and regulations.  
4.129.   First, on transparency: A lack of transparency with regard to China’s state measures is a 
fundamental challenge to free and  fair competition in the market.  
4.130.   There persists a lack of transparency in China’s industrial support, due to the limited 
disclosure of information by the State and SOEs. Japan acknowledges that notifications by China on 
its subsidies have improved since th e last TPR. There is, however, fairly limited disclosure of 
information on the real picture of the management of major state funds as well as of financing and 
goods provision for industries through SOEs. On government procurement, it has been reported that  
unpublicized, internal government documents promote the procuring of Chinese products. If this is 
the case, it is inconsistent with China’s commitments on transparency under its Accession Protocol. 
We request an explanation and ask that China take immedia te steps to improve the situation.  
4.131.   There are cases where foreign companies based in China have been obliged to transfer their 
technology to Chinese companies closely linked to the government. We are concerned by this 
approach to technology transfer.  
4.132.   Secon d, on market distorting measures: China’s market distorting measures and the 
resulting excess capacities, coupled with the challenges of a lack of transparency, are indeed 
detrimental to fair competition. We recall that China stated in its last TPR that it  would address the 
issue of overcapacity in its steel sector. Unfortunately, we have witnessed a move in the opposite 
direction, including a further increase in China’s production capacity since 2019 and its withdrawal 
from the Global Forum on Steel Excess  Capacity. Excess capacity is a global issue that must be 
addressed through both domestic and multilateral efforts. Japan calls on China to work on both 
fronts.  
4.133.   Market distorting policies are also on the increase in other industrial sectors. We note that,  
through state -owned funds and governmental financing agencies, massive support measures have 
been extended to advanced industries listed in “Made in China 2025”, such as the semi -conductor 
industry, among others. We fear that this could end up giving rise  to overcapacity challenges in 
those sectors.  
4.134.   Third, on SOEs: We have a concern regarding China’s extensive intervention in the market 
through SOEs. The Secretariat’s report points to the increase in the number of SOEs in industrial 
sectors, the significant roles they play in China’s economy, and the public support they receive. Such 
a trend should be incompatible with China’s goal of creating a market -oriented, law -based, and 
internationalized business environment.  
4.135.   Fourth, on the lack of clarity in laws and regulations: Japan would also like to share its 
concern that many laws and regulations in China lack sufficient clarity to restrain excessive and 
arbitrary intervention in business activities. These include data -related legislation, the Export Control 
Law, and the Anti -Foreign Sanctions Law. This makes it difficult to achieve fair competition for foreign 
companies in China.  
4.136.   As an example of this, the definition of “national security” in China’s laws and regulations is 
so broad as to cover the a reas of politics, national territory, the military, the economy, culture, 
society, science and technology, ecosystems, resources, nuclear energy, and others. Moreover, 
China’s laws and regulations allow the government to hold responsible those who are cons idered to 
undermine China’s national security and public interests and the legal interests of Chinese people 
and organizations. Japan is concerned by the ambiguity of a series of provisions therein that might WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 27 - 
 
  permit the government’s intervention in busines s activities under the name of “national security”, 
without due attention to transparency and fairness.  
4.137.   We have strong concerns about the laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, which 
could impede the free flow of data by legally obligating (i) dome stic data storage, (ii) export controls, 
(iii) a security assessment for cross -border transfer of personal and important data, and (iv) a 
security assessment for other data processing activities. This could place foreign companies at a 
competitive disadvan tage, and therefore constitute inconsistencies between these laws and China’s 
national treatment obligations under the GATS and the RCEP Agreement.  
4.138.   We also see a lack of clarity in investment -related laws and their implementation. Some 
sectors are supposed  to be open to foreign companies, but are restricted in reality. For example, 
according to China’s “Special Administrative Measures on Access to Foreign Investment (Negative 
List) (2020 Edition)” and the “Negative List for Market Access (Negative List) (20 20 Edition)”, some 
of the sectors liberalized to foreign companies remain restricted in effect, through the exercise of 
other laws and regulations. Japan requests China to improve predictability by (i) taking a more 
consistent approach to the application o f its laws and regulations, (ii) providing a sufficient transition 
period for regulatory changes, and (iii) simplifying and streamlining procedures.  
4.139.   Next, Japan would like to make a few points regarding incumbent agendas at the WTO.  
4.140.   First, on S&DT: Japan b elieves S&DT should be granted only to those Members who actually 
need it on an as -needed basis. We expect China  — the world’s largest trading country, and leads a 
number of industrial sectors with global markets  — to take on the responsibilities commensur ate 
with its significant stature in the world economy.  
4.141.   Second, on the fisheries subsidies negotiation: Japan welcomes the announcement by China 
on its intention to intensify its crackdown on IUU fishing. At the same time, given that illegal fishing 
vessels  coming from Chinese ports have been observed in various parts of the world’s oceans, 
including waters surrounding Japan, we call for China to improve the effectiveness of its controls.  
4.142.   Third, on the Joint Statement Initiatives: we would like to continue w orking closely with 
China on various JSIs to develop new rules in response to the changing times.  
4.143.   Fourth, on RTAs: the report mentions that China has signed FTAs and economic partnership 
agreements with 15 countries, including the RCEP Agreement, since it s last TPR. Japan stresses the 
importance of the implementation of those agreements after their entry into force and is closely 
following the situation.  
4.144.   In conclusion, once again, Japan expects China to fulfil its responsibilities in a manner 
commensurate  with its standing and significance in the global economy, and to contribute to 
maintaining and strengthening the MTS to ensure it is transparent and fair. Our questions and 
concerns demonstrate Japan’s expectations for and interest in China’s trade polici es. We call on 
China to take advantage of this TPR and to make sincere efforts to attain a free, equitable, 
transparent, predictable, non -discriminatory, and stable trade and investment environment.  
4.145.   Japan wishes China a successful and productive TPR.  
ARGEN TINA 
4.146.   We would first like to welcome the delegation of the People's Republic of China, led by 
H.E. Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce for China. I take this opportunity to congratulate 
Ambassador Mr  Li Chenggang and his entire team for their commitment an d leadership in the WTO.  
4.147.   We welcome the reports prepared by the People's Republic of China and the Secretariat, and 
for the valuable comments and observations of Ambassador Ms  Mlumbi -Peter, which have enabled 
us to deepen our understanding of this Member's trade practices.  
4.148.   In a few months Argentina and the People's Republic of China will celebrate 50 years of 
diplomatic relations. Allow me to recall that in 1964 Argentina was the first western country to export WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 28 - 
 
  wheat to China, beginning a new phase of economic and trade relations. Since then, we have been 
building a relationship of trust and friendship with China that is gradually growing stronger.  
4.149.   The People's Republic of China is an important trading partner of Argentina. In 2020, China 
was our sec ond largest trading partner in terms of trade volume and the second largest destination 
for our exports, mainly composed of agricultural goods and foodstuffs.  
4.150.   Bilateral trade is prosperous, with a deficit on our side, but with an enormous potential that 
will enable us to establish conditions for sustained and equitable growth. To help to expand trade, 
we value the negotiations and progressive agreement on sanitary protocols that allow us to export 
the safe, healthy and high quality food that we produce in A rgentina.  
4.151.   We would also like to highlight the measures taken by China to meet the challenges of the 
COVID -19 pandemic. In bilateral terms, a communication and early warning mechanism was 
established between the health authorities of both countries in order  to prevent COVID -19 
contamination in shipments and to ensure food safety. In this regard, we emphasize that this entire 
process was based on the FAO and WHO Food Safety Guidelines, demonstrating mutual trust in 
international standards.  
4.152.   In terms of investm ents, China is a significant Member in Argentina. Many large Chinese 
companies have a presence in Argentina, and their investments are concentrated in the banking 
sector, followed by trade and, thirdly, mining, mainly in the exploitation of lithium. It is also worth 
noting that China is the leading investor in the renewable energy sector.  
4.153.   With regard to infrastructure financing, Argentina wishes to highlight the importance of 
Chinese loans for the construction of two hydroelectric power plants, a photovolta ic plant and the 
rehabilitation of several branches of our freight railway network.  
4.154.   This picture allows us to see that there is tremendous room to promote Chinese investments 
in our country, as a tool to enhance Argentina's sustainable development, hand in  hand with Chinese 
growth. At the same time, it should be emphasized that the set of investments and financing facilities 
seek to contribute to the development of cleaner energy and the reduction in greenhouse gas 
emissions, which leverage the growth of pr oduction and exports, in a socially inclusive and 
environmentally resilient way.  
4.155.   Argentina wishes to emphasize that together with China it shares:  
(i) the vision that multilateralism must contribute to developing instruments that will enable us 
to build a shar ed future for all, taking into account the particular circumstances of developing 
countries;  
(ii) the conviction that sustainable development must be based on the principle of common but 
differentiated responsibilities to correct past inequities and to avoid es tablishing future 
inequities; and  
(iii) the idea that the road to development can only be travelled by building trust, good faith and 
strengthening ties of friendship and cooperation, based on frank and fraternal dialogue.  
 
4.156.   The Argentine Republic recognizes Chin a as an active and committed Member of the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.157.   We hope that China will continue to work constructively on agricultural trade reform, 
contributing to the substantial and progressive reduction of trade - and production -distorting 
dome stic support and in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies.  
4.158.   We also look forward to continuing to work together on restoring the full functioning of the 
dispute settlement system as a cornerstone of the multilateral trading system and on the process of 
reforming this Organization in a direction that will strengthen the position and growth potential of 
developing countries.  
4.159.   Under this Trade Policy Review, we have submitted questions to the People's Republic of 
China regarding, inter alia, the regulation of geographical indications, foreign investment in the seed 
sector, agricultural incentives during the COVID -19 pandemic, trade in services, including electronic WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 29 - 
 
  commerce, and taxation measures related to environmental pollution, including the carbon market. 
We thank China in advance for its replies, which will be duly studied by our authorities in Buenos 
Aires.  
4.160.   In conclusion, we would like to reiterate how much we appreciate this opportunity to 
exchange views on China's trade practices and wish the Chinese delegation a successful conclusion 
to this exercise.  
SINGAPORE  
4.161.   Singapore extends a warm welcome to Minister of Commerce Mr. Wang Wentao and Deputy 
China International Trade Representative Mr. Wang Shouwen and his delegation, who are 
participating v irtually from Beijing. We would like to first express our appreciation to the People’s 
Republic of  China for its Government report and s tatement. Our appreciation also goes to the Chair , 
Ambassador Athaliah Molokomme, the discussant , Ambassador Xolelwa Mlu mbi-Peter, as well as the 
Secretariat for their invaluable insights. Allow me to make three points.  
4.162.   First, Singapore and China share longstanding and substantive bilateral economic ties, 
underpinned by strong trade and investment flows. China has been Sing apore’s largest merchandise 
trading  partner since 2013, with bilateral merchandise trade exceeding US D 100 billion in 2020. This 
represents close to 15% of Singapore’s total merchandise trade with the world. Bilateral services  
trade has also been growing, with China ranking among Singapore’s top five trading partners with 
services trade valued at over US D 36 billion in 2019. On the investment  front, Singapore has been 
China’s largest foreign investor since 2013, with investment flows amounting to USD 7.6 bi llion in 
2019.   
4.163.   The depth of this relationship is further characteri zed by the broad -ranging and multi -faceted 
cooperation at all levels. Singapore’s collaboration with China is anchored by our high -level political 
platforms, including the Joint Council of Bilateral Cooperation (J CBC), as well as our 
Government -to-Government projects and Provincial Business Councils across different regions. We 
also share a comprehensive network of FTAs including the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RC EP), the ASEAN -China FTA as well as the bilateral China -Singapore FTA. Following 
the 2018 China -Singapore FTA Upgrade Protocol, we have further improved the Services and 
Investment chapters. We also look forward to the RCEP’s entry into force by early Janu ary 2022, 
and welcome China’s interest to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans -
Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).  
4.164.   Second , the depth and breadth of bilateral cooperation continue to expand as both sides 
work hard to identify eme rging are as of collaboration. For example, in its 14th Five-Year Plan and 
2035 long -term goals released in March this year, China listed its near and longer -term economic 
and development priorities, which include d the development of a digitaliz ation strategy under 
“Digital China”, as well as green and sustainable development goals.  
4.165.   In this context, Singapore and China have embarked on future -looking projects such as the  
Singapore -Shenzhen Smart City Initiative (SCI), which was launched during Singapore Prime 
Minist er Lee Hsieng Loong’s visit to China in April 2019. Under this initiative, Singapore and 
Shenzhen will serve as key nodes for Southeast Asia and the Greater Bay Area respectively to 
promote digital connectivity, talent exchange and development, and innovat ion and 
entrepreneurship.  
4.166.   Singapore also looks forward to closer ties with China in trade and investment. In January 
2020, China passed the Foreign Investment Law and President Xi Jinping announced that China 
would be releasing a nationwide negative list f or cross -border services trade at the China 
International Fair for Trade in Services in September 2021. We look forward to its implementation 
as China continues to further reform and open its economy.  
4.167.   Third,  Singapore will continue to work with China to strengthen the free, open and rules -
based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. In fact, this year marks the 20th 
anniversary of China's accession to the WTO, and I wish to congratulate China o n this auspicious 
milestone. As then -Chief Negotiator and Vice  Minister of Foreign Trade Mr Long Yongtu said at the 
General Council in 2001, “ China will make its best efforts to play a positive and constructive role, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 30 - 
 
  and work with the other WTO Members in order to consolidate and improve the multilateral trading 
system ”.4 We encourage China to live up to this promise and continue playing a positive and 
constructive role at the WTO.  
4.168.   In this regard, we commend China’s active participation in the various Joint Statement 
Initiatives (JSIs) at the WTO. As a leading proponent of the JSI on Investment Facilitation for 
Development, China has played an important in securing broad -based suppor t from the WTO 
Membership, with over 100 co -sponsors. In a similar vein, we welcome China’s active participation 
in the JSI on E -Commerce. Given the progress that China has made in embracing the digital 
transformation, we hope that it will continue to supp ort a high ambition and meaningful out come in 
the JSI on E -Commerce.  
4.169.   Since transparency is a critical pillar of the WTO, we encourage China to improve its 
notifications on state trading enterprises and domestic support, as flagged in the Secretariat report . 
We have also requested China to provide more information concerning competition, intellectual 
property, trade facilitation, as well as i nvestment and services liberaliz ation. Additionally, we have 
requested China to elaborate on its regulations and futur e development plans for e -commerce and 
digital infrastructure, as well as energy and green development. We would greatly appreciate China’s 
responses to our questions.   
4.170.   Finally, my delegation would like to acknowledge the valuable cont ributions of 
Ambassa dor Li Chenggang and his very capable team in Geneva. We look forward to continuing 
working with China and its Mission in Geneva to strengthen the WTO and the multilateral trading 
system. We wish China a successful 8th Trade Policy Revi ew.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.171.   On behalf of the Government of Costa Rica, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the 
delegation of China, led by His Excellency, Minister Mr Wang Wentao, as well as to Ambassador Mr 
Li Chenggang and his team here in Geneva, and to thank them for their repor t and excellent 
presentation this morning. I would also like to extend my thanks to Ambassador Ms Mlumbi Peter 
for her interesting comments and to the WTO Secretariat for the report.  
4.172.   China is Costa Rica's second largest trading partner, individually, after  the United States, 
and our main trading partner in Asia. This year, as part of Costa Rica's bicentennial celebration, we 
also commemorate the first 10 years of the free trade agreement between our nations. While in 
2011 trade totalled USD 1.319 million, i n 2020 it reached USD 2.271 million. On average, trade 
grew at an annual rate of 6.2%. In addition, since 2016, we have had an investment promotion and 
protection agreement with the People's Republic of China, which is a very valuable tool to strengthen 
the relationship between both parties.  
4.173.   During the review period, China, like the rest of the world, faced the challenges arising from 
the COVID 19 pandemic. Despite the adverse effects, annual GDP growth rate during the review 
period averaged 2% and 2020 ended with a positive real GDP growth rate of 2.3%.  
4.174.   China's growth owes part of its success to a series of economic reforms, in many cases driven 
by WTO membership, which have enabled China to virtually eliminate extreme poverty. As the 
Secretariat's repor t highlights, during the review period, poverty fell from 3.1% to 1.7% in 2018, 
and to 0.6% in 2019, and might well have reached the poverty eradication target measured under 
the 2011 baseline by 2020 had it not been for the impact of the pandemic. These r esults are certainly 
worth celebrating.  
4.175.   Poverty reduction has also been accompanied by a growth in the middle class, which in turn 
has transformed the Chinese economy so that consumption, domestic demand and services have 
become the predominant economic gr owth factors, rather than investment, external demand and 
manufacturing, as was the case in the previous rapid growth phase. In that vein, we are watching 
with great interest the growth of the services sector in China, which for the first time accounted fo r 
 
 4 Speech by Mr. Long Y ongtu, Chief Negotiator and Vice -Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic 
Cooperation of the People’s Republic of China, at the General Council Meeting of the WTO (December 19, 2001, 
Geneva). Retrieved from: http://www.china -un.ch/eng/wto/wtothsm/t85636.htm  on 10 October 2021.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 31 - 
 
  50% of GDP in 2015, the measures that have been implemented to reduce restrictions in some 
sectors, as well as the opening up of the financial sector.  
4.176.   We would also like to stress the importance of China in efforts to mitigate climate change, 
being the w orld's largest energy consumer. In that regard, we view positively the relative reduction 
in its coal consumption and the promotion of clean energy. We also welcome its work in the Informal 
Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Pla stics Trade. We urge China to step 
up its engagement by reforming fossil fuel subsidies as a crucial mechanism to reduce distortions 
and improve trade flows, as well as to support environmental protection. We are also pleased to 
learn that the government w ill present a new policy that will end subsidies on fuel and fishing vessel 
construction, a positive sign in what is the home straight towards a fisheries agreement by the 
Twelfth Ministerial Conference.  
4.177.   Costa Rica recognizes China's role in the WTO multil ateral trading system. We also view 
positively its integration into a number of joint initiatives, in areas such as electronic commerce, 
investment facilitation, MSMEs and the Information Technology Agreement and its expansion. We 
note China's constructive  role in the discussions on the Bali Decision on Tariff Rate Quota 
Administration, and urge it to continue supporting work in the agricultural trade reform negotiations 
in the same spirit.  
4.178.   Costa Rica recognizes China's major role in world trade and the wor ld economy, and in this 
connection is closely following the development of China's sanitary and phytosanitary regulatory 
system, as well as the various policies notified in the Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade. On 
these issues, we urge China to con tinue working with Members to ensure that the implementation 
of non tariff measures has the least possible impact on trade, particularly in agricultural products.  
4.179.   On the issue of transparency, we note with concern the Secretariat's report regarding China's  
outstanding notifications on state trading enterprises, the most recent notification of which covers 
the period 2015 –2017. The same is true for the Agreement on Agriculture, where China's latest 
notification on domestic support was submitted in 2018, for the 2016 period. This is a notification in 
which China also notified a violation of its AMS commitments by exceeding its de minimis support. 
We urge China to update its notifications, and to align its domestic support policies with its 
commitments under th e Agreement on Agriculture.  
4.180.   Under this Review, Costa Rica has submitted questions on investment policies, trade in 
services, government procurement, intellectual property rights and geographical indications, 
electronic commerce and market access. My delega tion is aware of the significant efforts made by 
the country under review in preparing the responses to the questions raised, and we would therefore 
like to thank China for the attention it has given to our questions.  
4.181.   Finally, I take this opportunity to wi sh the delegation of China a successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
OMAN  
4.182.   It is an honour  and a pleasure to participate in the Trade Policy R eview of China. We offer 
our sincere congratulation to H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, the Minister of Commerce of China, for his 
excellent and comprehensive opening statement.  
4.183.   This year China is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its accession to the WTO, and we take 
this opportunity to extend our congratulation to China.  
4.184.   The Sultanate of Oman and China enjoy excellent political, econ omic and trade relations. In 
the past four decades, these relations have been strengthened in various fields related to energy, 
economy, trade, culture and others, which contribute to the development and common prosperity 
of the two countries.  
4.185.   Despite the  global declining trend in China’s economy, performance during the review period 
the country's economy has been a major driver of global growth, the swift fiscal and monetary policy 
reactions helped mitigate t he economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic and  prepared for the WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 32 - 
 
  recovery. GDP growth was 2.3% in 2020, which made China the only G -20 economy with a positive 
growth rate that year.  
4.186.   At the national level, the long -term structural changes in China's economy, away from 
agriculture and industry towards s ervices, have continued and the economy began to recover 
starting from mid -2020.  
4.187.   Oman welcomes the adoption of a new Foreign Investment Law in China; this law will 
improve the business environment for foreign investors.  
4.188.   Oman also welcomes China’s wide -ranging reforms that included its intellectual property (IP) 
regime and the improvement in trade  facilitation initiatives introduced since 2015.   
4.189.   China is an active participant and major player in the multilateral trading system. Oman 
looks forwards to workin g with China as an important Member of the WTO. Oman also shares China’s 
objectives to maintain a rules -based, transparent, non -discriminatory, open and inclusive 
multilateral trading system, and to oppose unilateralism and protectionism.  
4.190.   To conclude, Oman appreciates China’s initiatives on technical assistance in favour  of 
developing and least developed countries, which aims to support the integration of these countries 
into the multilateral trading system  
4.191.   The Sultanate of Oman wishes China a very successful Trade Policy R eview.  
NORWAY  
4.192.   Let me join others in welcoming the delegation of China to this Trade Policy Review and to 
thank the discussant for her contribution to our deliberations.  
4.193.   This year marks the 20th anniversary of Ch ina's accession to the WTO. During this period 
China has benefit ed tremendously from becoming closely integrated in the global exchange of goods 
and services.  
4.194.   China is today the second largest economy in the world and a trading superpower. But with 
great success comes great responsibilities. We therefore have great expectations both regarding 
China’s contributions to the multilateral trading system and regarding China’s respect for and 
compliance with WTO commitments and obligations.  
4.195.   We welcome the stateme nt in the Government report that China is a staunch supporter, 
active participant and major contributor to the multilateral trading system.  
4.196.   Norway is looking forward to continuing our cooperation with China with the aim to further 
develop and strengthenin g the multilateral rules -based trading system. We appreciate China’s active 
participation in several Joint Statement Initiatives such as investment facilitation for development 
and the JSI on e -commerce.  
4.197.   In the ongoing negotiations on fisheries subsidies,  China has a particular important role to 
play as the world’s largest fishing nation. We would like to commend China for stating clearly that 
China is not looking for blanket special and differential treatment but is prepared to contribute in a 
meaningful way that is commensurate with its development.  
4.198.   Another important area under negotiations is agriculture. Safeguarding the negotiating 
function of the WTO means that proposals should be carefully calibrated to contribute to negotiated 
outcomes. This respon sibility weighs on our collective shoulders. In our view, conditioning 
discussions on a work program me for future negotiations on domestic support in agriculture on 
disciplines addressing only AMS of developed members does not fulfil this test.  
4.199.   China and N orway are among the leading maritime nations of the world. Norway commends 
China's efforts to liberalize trade in the maritime transport sector. We appreciate the cooperation 
with China in the WTO to promote liberalization of and strengthened commitments f or maritime 
transport.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 33 - 
 
  4.200.   Both Norway and China are shipbuilding nations with many common interests. Norway has 
appreciated the cooperation with China in the International Working Group on Export Credits (IWG) 
on guidelines for the global ship building secto r. It is unfortunate that negotiations were suspended 
in 2020, and we hope that negotiations can be resumed in the not -too-distant future.  
4.201.   Turning to China’s implementation of and adherence to WTO commitments and obligations, 
permit me to point to some is sues of concern.  
4.202.   In the area of IPR protection, China has made some progress in recent years, but 
infringements remain an issue, and the appeals processes for claiming wrongful use of IPR, patents 
and trademarks can be complicated and time consuming.  
4.203.   On government support program mes, the Secretariat report notes that China’s notifications 
are not sufficient to present a clear picture, in particular in relation to support for sectors such as 
aluminum, electric vehicles, glass, shipbuilding, semiconductors a nd steel. We urge the Chinese 
government to do more to ensure that incentives are equally granted to SOEs, privately owned and  
foreign -invested enterprises. And secondly, that subsidies are notified in accordance with the 
Agreement on Subsidies and Counter vailing Measures and established procedures.  
4.204.   We note that the Government Procurement Law and the Tendering Law are currently under 
revision. We hope that the result will be that foreign -invested companies, Chinese private companies 
and state -owned enterpr ises have equal access to government contracts, and that these revisions 
may pave the way for China’s accession to the GPA.  
4.205.   China currently maintains a very strict inbound travel regime, which includes restrictions on 
visa issuance. This makes it challeng ing for foreign companies to bring competent personnel who 
are foreign citizens into China. We hope China will ease restrictions on issuance of visas.  
4.206.   Export of seafood to China is very important to Norway. We thank China for its good 
cooperation over a n umber of years, which has led to a significant increase in trade in seafood 
products. Since 2020, however, exports of seafood to China have again become more difficult.  
4.207.   China's system for obtaining and maintaining market access for seafood products is 
complicated and non -transparent. The emergency preventive measures which were introduced in 
2020 has added to the complexity. Measures should be proportionate, risk -based and based on 
scientific evidence. Norway encourages China to lift the emergency measures  due to the lack of 
sufficient scientific evidence.  
4.208.   We are also concerned that the new import regulations contained in Decrees 248 and 249 
may result in new trade barriers. Norway urges China to provide necessary information on how the 
new regulations will  be applied, and to consider delaying the implementation date. We have 
submitted several requests to China regarding trade in seafood, and we are ready to engage in a 
bilateral dialogue with the aim to finding mutually beneficial solutions.  
4.209.   Let me conclud e by expressing our appreciation for the comprehensive and close bil ateral 
cooperation with China. We are hopeful that ongoing processes will lead to increased trade and 
business cooperation. We hope it will be possible to hold meetings in the annual Norwa y-China Joint 
Economic Commission before the end of 2021, as well as in the biannual Norway -China Maritime 
Working Group.  
4.210.   Finally, let me wish the delegation of China a successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.211.   The United States welcomes Minister Wang  Wentao and the rest of China’s delegation.  
4.212.   During China’s last Trade Policy Review in 2018, the United States delivered an opening 
statement that laid out, in frank and direct terms, both the importance of China’s role in the 
international trading system  and the unique and fundamental challenges to th at system that China 
presents. Today, those challenges remain before us.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 34 - 
 
  4.213.   When China acceded to the WTO 20 years ago, WTO Members expected that the terms set 
forth in China’s Protocol of Accession would perma nently dismantle existing Chinese policies and 
practices that were incompatible with an international trading system expressly based on o pen, 
market -oriented policies. But those expectations have not been realized, and it appears that China  
has no inclinat ion to change. Instead, China has used the imprimatur of WTO membership to become 
the WTO’s largest trader, while doubling down on its state -led, non -market approach to trade, to 
the detriment of workers and businesses in the United States and other countr ies.  
4.214.   The United States’ most fundamental concerns with China’s trade regime involv e China’s 
industrial policies. While other WTO Members also seek to help their industries develop, China’s 
approach is materially different. C hina’s industrial policies go w ell beyond guiding and supporting 
domestic industries. China’s industrial policies skew the playing field against imported goods and 
services and foreign manufacturers and services suppliers through an array of supporting measures.  
These measures include market access limitations, investment restrictions and massive subsidies 
that lead to severe and persistent excess capacity. Other unfair trade practices include preferential 
treatment for state -owned enterprises and other favoured  Chinese companies, discriminatory 
regulatory requirements, unique national standards, data restrictions, inadequate enforcement of 
intellectual property rights, cyber theft and the use of competition law enforcement f or industrial 
policy purposes. China u ses these measures to secure dominance in global markets, which 
undermines U.S. economic interests.  
4.215.   As we assess China’s trade policies today, we also cannot ignore reports of China’s use of 
forced labour  in several sectors.  We also take note of another Chinese practice, which has come to 
be known as “economic coercion”. If another WTO Member speaks out against or otherwise offends 
China, China’s response increasingly has been to use its economic clout to pressure the offending 
country to “correct its mis takes.” A number of WTO Members in this room have experienced China’s 
“economic coercion,” which takes many forms.   
4.216.   Over the years, the United States has made extensive efforts to encourage China to comply 
with and internalize WTO rules and norms and make other market -oriented changes. We convened 
numerous high -level bilateral dialogues with China, but they only led to modest changes, and China 
did not always follow through on its commitments.  Here at the WTO, we also worked hard to enforce 
China’s compliance with WTO rules, bringing 27 dispute settlement cases against China, often in 
collabo ration with other WTO Member s. We secured victories in every case that was decided,  but 
many of them were hollow. Even when China changed the specific practices that we had challenged, 
China often did not change the underlying policies, and meaningful reforms by China remained 
elusiv e. 
4.217.   Because of this situation, the United States has pursued and will continue to pursue all 
available tools in an effort to persuad e China to make needed changes.  We made some progress 
last year with the signing of an economic and trade agreement with Chin a, but our most fundamental 
concerns with China’s tr ade regime remain unaddressed.  
4.218.   The United States will also continue to pursue progress at the WTO.  
4.219.   We believe that trade – and the WTO – can and should be a force for good that encourages 
a race to the to p and addresses global challenges as they arise.  In this regard, the Marrakesh 
Agreement establishing the WTO begins with the recognition that trade should raise living standards, 
ensure full employment, pursue sustainable development, and protect and pre serve the 
environment. We believe that refocusing on these goals can help bring shared prosperity to all, not 
just some.  
4.220.   The United States is not the only WTO Member whose workers and businesses are being 
harmed by China’s unfair trade practices, and we wi ll be more successful in building truly fair 
international trade that enables healthy competition if we work together, and speak up.  
4.221.   Of course, the best solution remains for China to take the initiative to fully and effectively 
embrace open, market -orient ed policies, and that is what we continue to urge China to do.   
4.222.   We have submitted written questions as part of this Review and we will review China's 
answers in advance of Day two. We wish China a successful TPR.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 35 - 
 
  MEXICO 
4.223.   Mexico warmly welcomes the delegati on of China, headed by Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce.  
4.224.   We thank Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (South Africa) for her detailed analysis as 
discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for its diligent work in preparing her report.  
4.225.   In terms of international trade, the importance and impact of China is significant. After 
almost two decades after its accession to the WTO, it already ranks first in exports and second in 
world imports of goods, being the major participant in international trade. The economic expa nsion 
and the dimension of its integration in world goods markets is certainly the most important economic 
story of this generation.  
4.226.   Despite the adversities that the international trade and economy have faced during the 
review period, mainly due to the pa ndemic, China has managed to maintain a balance in its economy 
and is at the forefront of the countries with the strongest economic recovery. The World Bank 
estimates that China will have a growth rate above 6% in 2021, which is almost two percentage 
points above the estimated global average. This indicates that the economic policies implemented 
by China to respond to the health crisis have been effective. One indicator in this regard is that 
China reported the highest rate of job creation during 2020.  
4.227.   Mexico and China have a dynamic and constantly evolving trade relationship. In 2020, our 
trade exchanges amounted to more than USD 81 billion, representing 10.2% of our international 
trade, China being Mexico's second trading partner. Among the countries in t he Asia Pacific region, 
China is the third largest investor in our country and Mexican investment in China continues to grow 
steadily.  
4.228.   Within the WTO, we recognize the delegation of China's active and constructive participation, 
led by Ambassador Li, part icularly in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies and in all joint initiatives, 
and we highlight its leadership in the investment facilitation initiative. We are confident that all these 
negotiations will lead to tangible results, and that China will con tribute to meeting the challenges of 
international trade and in particular those faced by this Organization, with an ever -prevailing trade 
and systemic approach.  
4.229.   We also recognize China's involvement in issues relevant to the WTO, such as the Dispute 
Settlement Body, being one of the 121 Members proposing to fill vacancies in the Appellate Body. 
Likewise, China is one of the 25 Members of the Multi -party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement 
(MPIA).  
4.230.   On specific trade issues, we recognize China's efforts to expand its network of trade 
agreements and its liberalization of trade in services. However, I would like to point out that, with 
regard to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, in particular the emergency measures on cold chain 
food imports imposed to p revent the entry of the COVID -19 virus, Mexico continues to be concerned 
about the lack of evidence and science -based justification that the virus is transmitted in food or 
food packaging. Therefore, we hope that China will provide the supporting scientifi c information or, 
if appropriate, withdraw these measures.  
4.231.   We also note that China still does not clearly specify what some of its support programmes 
in various agricultural sectors encompasses. Similarly, we note that there are delays in its 
notifications  of the support it grants to the agricultural and fisheries sectors. This lack of information 
only allows a limited assessment of the levels of aid granted and, therefore, of China's compliance 
with its commitments. Given the increasing scope for granting trade-distorting support to agriculture 
due to steady increases in production, it is fundamental to have greater transparency on the use 
and policies of such support that could have an impact on international markets.  
4.232.   We welcome China's steps towards trade  facilitation through the implementation of the 
national single window clause in 2019. We also welcome the amendments to its legislation on anti -
dumping measures and the implementation of its new Foreign Investment Law.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 36 - 
 
  4.233.   Furthermore, during several Trade P olicy Reviews of China, as well as in other forums, Mexico 
has expressed its concern about one of the serious problems facing international markets: excess 
capacity in the steel and aluminium sector. This contributes to uncertainty and therefore to the fal l 
in global prices, which has important repercussions in countries such as Mexico. We appreciate the 
Subsecretariat's comments on this issue.  
4.234.   We can see from the Secretariat's report that the value of steel and iron imports recorded a 
significant increase in 2020, while the value of exports saw a decrease compared to 2018. We will 
monitor the evolution of these figures and the measures announced by China to reduce and 
discourage excess capacity. We reiterate the importance of continuing  efforts such as these to 
pursue reforms aimed at eliminating government policies that have an impact on distorting 
international markets.  
4.235.   We again encourage China to be more transparent with regard to information on subsidy 
programmes and other support sc hemes for various industries and on the role of state -owned 
enterprises in this regard. We trust that China will address these concerns.  
4.236.   China has been the fastest growing economy in recent years and a major driver in the global 
economy. How it performs i s important for the world and, in order to sustain this expansion, we are 
confident that it will overcome the challenge of maintaining its financial stability, given that the 
economic recovery has been based, in part, on the granting of significant amounts  of state support. 
Another important challenge will be to re -size the role of the State in relevant sectors of its economy, 
through public enterprises and the granting of support.  
4.237.   Finally, as is a recurring problem in other countries, its ageing populatio n could have 
consequences in the near future. Therefore, it will be important to consider the implementation of 
structural reforms aimed at addressing these and other challenges facing the Chinese economy.  
4.238.   In conclusion, we wish China every success in this  Review and appreciate the effort made to 
respond to the questions raised by my delegation.  
COLOMBIA  
4.239.   We would like to express our greetings to the distinguished delegation of China with us 
today, led by Minister Wang, Deputy Minister Wang and Ambassador Li . We would also like to thank 
the Secretariat for the report and the Ambassador of South Africa for her important contributions.  
4.240.   This Trade Policy Review is particularly important for this room, as is evidenced by the 
interest shown by the entire Membership, because it directly affects us all. Indeed, since the previous 
Trade Policy Review of China in 2018, China's economy has been a major influence on global 
economic growth. A significant portion of global consumption, investment flows, capital mo vement, 
innovations, and especially progress in terms of poverty reduction, are explained by what happened 
in China during the review period. This is why the examination and successful outcome of this Review 
is of direct concern to all of us.  
4.241.   In particular , as far as Colombia is concerned, trade figures with the People's Republic of 
China are growing significantly. Colombia is perhaps one of the Latin American countries that saw 
its economic and trade figures with China increase at an accelerated rate later  than other countries. 
Foreign investment or migratory flows, for example, had always been considerable but modest.  
4.242.   However, since China's last Review, this has been changing. I will give some examples.  
4.243.   In the last decade, China became the second destinati on of our exports between 2012 –2014 
and 2018 –2020. In terms of our imports, China has occupied second place over the last decade 
behind the United States. Bilateral trade flows, very much in deficit from Colombia's position, have 
grown on both sides of the  balance. In fact, along with the sale of Chinese goods to Colombia, 
Chinese demand for our products has also grown, meaning that the resulting trade has also grown 
and has counteracted the atypical months of the pandemic.  
4.244.   With regard to our exports, Colom bia exports a large proportion of mining and energy 
resources to China, which account for 95% of our export basket to that country, although in 2020, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 37 - 
 
  exports of NME goods, following an upward trend, recorded a growth of 28% compared to 2019. 
This trend was  mainly due to the increase in sales of coffee, fungicides, wood in the rough, polymers 
of propylene and crude glycerol.  
4.245.   With respect to our imports, Colombia imports a variety of products from China, but almost 
30% of this trade is for telephones and comp uters and their components.  
4.246.   Regarding investments, China's largest contribution to Colombia in our history occurred in 
2020. Chinese foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Colombia has focused mainly on minerals, but 
more recently investment in infrastructure has accelerated, with milestones such as the beginning 
of construction of the first line of the Bogotá metro and the commuter train for the metropolitan 
region with Chinese capital.  
4.247.   China's high GDP growth rates and their impact on our economy are therefor e undeniable. 
Hence the obvious interest in its economic and regulatory policy decisions and the direct importance 
we attach to this review process.  
4.248.   The Secretariat's report, in this regard, describes a significant number of market oriented 
reforms. Thus, for example, it mentions that in the 2020 version of the Special Administrative 
Measures on Access to Foreign Investment, the number of restrictive measures was reduced from 
63 in 2017 to 33 in 2020. Similarly, a gradual, although still modest, opening up of services – and 
financial services in particular – is described as an important change in the review period. In the 
same vein, it is highlighted that the average most favoured nation (MFN) applied tariffs decreased 
by 2.2 points between 2017 and 2021, wi th reductions in almost all product categories. China also 
grants preferential tariff treatment to imports from least developed countries (LDCs) that have 
established diplomatic relations with China. As of February 2021, China applied duty free access 
conditions to 97% of tariff lines from 41 LDCs.  
4.249.   These changes, coupled with the long term structural change in China's economy that 
continued in the review period, with the economy increasingly shifting from agriculture to industry 
and services and its consequ ent impact on global demand for all types of goods and services, are of 
interest to the Colombian productive apparatus. China is one of our best customers and also one of 
our most challenging competitors.  
4.250.   It is for this reason that Colombia attaches the hi ghest importance to seeking to understand 
in depth its most successful policies. For our country, it is necessary, and would be extremely 
valuable, to learn about the subsidies currently granted to its productive apparatus in greater detail. 
An important c ontribution to this evaluation will be significant improvements in the timeliness and 
detail of subsidy notifications, especially at the regional level, both in agriculture and in fisheries 
subsidies, industry and state owned enterprises. Many of our quest ions to the Chinese Government 
are in this direction.  
4.251.   In this regard, we note the importance that China attaches to the multilateral trading system 
and the active role it plays in WTO discussions. We also note that China has been supporting the 
inclusion o f new issues in the multilateral system, as mentioned in the reports of both the Secretariat 
and the Government, by participating in various plurilateral initiatives. In addition, and very 
importantly for those of us who seek a rules based dispute settleme nt process, it is noteworthy that 
China is a member of the MPIA. Thus, not only is China a regular user of the Dispute Settlement 
System, but we highlight the importance it has given to seeking alternatives with other countries 
that allow for a two tier sy stem in which rules are at the centre of the resolution of trade crises. 
Moreover, China is also an active Member in disputes and negotiations. On transparency, we urge 
the Chinese Government to continue and strengthen its active approach to submitting not ifications 
to the WTO and hope that they can update notifications of particular significance, including those 
relating to state trading enterprises, domestic support to the agricultural sector and fisheries 
subsidies.  
4.252.   In conclusion, it only remains for us to congratulate China on its progress, wish it every 
success in its Trade Policy Review, and urge the Ambassador and his Mission to continue playing an 
active role in the WTO with a view to improving the functioning of the multilateral trading system.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 38 - 
 
  UKRAINE  
4.253.   On behalf of Ukraine, I would like to warmly welcome the distinguished delegation of China 
led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.  
4.254.   The eighth Trade Policy Review of China offers a good opportunity to deepe n our 
understanding of recent developments in, and challenges to, China`s trade, economic, and 
investment policies occurred since its previous Review in 2018.  
4.255.   Ukraine appreciates the significant work of the Chair, the WTO Secretariat, the discussant , 
Her Excellency Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (South Africa) and the Government of China in preparation 
of this Review.  
4.256.   Ukraine commends high GDP growth rates, trade reforms and structural changes in China’ s 
economy, resulting in its shift from a stage of high -speed growth to a stage of high -quality 
development.  
4.257.   We note continuous and stable economic recovery after the outbreak of the COVID ‑19 
pandemic, starting in mid -2020, and appreciate Government’ s stabilizing measures and policy aimed 
at enhancing the libera lization and facilitation of trade and investment, and pursuing a new pattern 
of opening -up on all fronts. China’ s experience in pandemic prevention and practical assistance in 
combating COVID -19 are of great significance for Ukraine.  
4.258.   Within China’ s trade policy framework,  we also note the efforts to address climate change 
issues and the main ongoing actions in this regard, in particular industrial restructuring, energy 
structure optimization, energy conservation and efficiency and the establishment of a ca rbon 
emissions trading market.  
4.259.   At a multilateral le vel, Ukraine acknowledges China’ s important role in the multilateral 
trading system and regional trade agreements and appreciate its active membership in the WTO, 
including participation in the discussions  on the WTO reform and in j oint statement initiatives on 
e-Commerce; investment facilitation for development; micro, small, and medium -sized enterprises; 
and domestic regulation.  
4.260.   In terms of bilateral relations, China remains an important trade partner fo r Ukraine. Our 
countries enjoy effective economic and trade cooperation along the Belt and Road initiative as well 
as in the fields of agriculture, science and technology, space industry, education, healthcare etc.  
4.261.   China ranked first among Ukraine’ s trade partners by volume of bilateral trade in goods that 
has been growing and reached USD 15.4 billion in 2020, which was the increase by 20.5 % ov er the 
previous year (exports USD 7.1 billion, imports USD 8.3 billion). As of January -July 2021 , the 
Ukrainian -Chinese bilateral trade amounted to USD 10.5 billion ( increase of  31.5 % compared to the 
same period of 2020).  
4.262.   China is consistently among the TOP 5 importers of Ukrainian agricultural products. In 2020, 
the volume of bilateral trade in agricultural products  amounted to USD 3.7 billion ( increase of  77%), 
exports USD 3.6 billion, imports USD 192 million.  
4.263.   Our steadily growing economic and trade relationship has been accompanied by a number 
of joint projects, in particular, in the areas of infrastructure, energy  and energy efficiency, 
agricultural sector etc. One of the examples of agreements reached in those fields is the signing of 
the Program of Cooperation between Ukraine and China in the framework of the joint construction 
of the “Silk Road Economic Belt” an d the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road”.  
4.264.   Ukraine has submitted a number of questions with the regard to the reports prepared by 
China and the WTO Secretariat. The main topics were related to the changes to requirements for 
importation of sunflower -seed oil; amendment of procedure for reg istration of exporters of 
plant-based feeds; establishment of cooperation between competent authorities on SPS -related 
issues; the new foreign investment legislation and foreign investment protection; funct ioning of pilot 
free trade zones; VAT application; customs cooperation; export restrictions and licensing; new 
fisheries policy; implementation of agricultural and environmental policies etc.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 39 - 
 
  4.265.   I would like to express our gratitude for the responses to our q uestions and wish the 
delegation of China very successful Trade Policy Review.  
4.266.   We look forward to further strengthening our bilateral relations and cooperation, including 
across the WTO bodies on different issues of mutual interest.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.267.   On behalf of the Government of El Salvador, I would like to join the delegations that have 
preceded me in welcoming the distinguished delegation of the Government of China, led by the 
Minister of Commerce, HE Mr Wang Wentao, as well as Ambassador Mr Li Chenggang and  all the 
officials joining us from the capital and the Mission here in Geneva.  
4.268.   I also thank the Ambassador of South Africa, Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi Peter, and the Secretariat 
for the report submitted.  
4.269.   It is an honour for El Salvador to participate in this transparency exercise. In these times of 
global uncertainty in which the multilateral trading system is going through various challenges, this 
exercise helps to give Members a broad vision and deep knowledge of our trading partners' trade 
and trade related  policies, especially in view of the difficulties we are facing due to the pandemic.  
4.270.   This eighth Trade Policy Review informs us that China, like all Members of this Organization, 
has been impacted by the pandemic economic crisis, with GDP falling from 7.0%  in 2016 –2018 to 
6.0% in 2019 and 2.3% in 2020, and with a contraction of 6.8% at the beginning of last year.  
4.271.   Despite this situation, China's economy has generally shown robust growth and is projected 
to reach 6.0% again in 2021, as economic activities are  expected to normalize.  
4.272.   It should be noted that, starting in mid 2020, the economy began to recover, driven mainly 
by public investment and international trade, which, as the Secretariat's report notes, is due to swift 
fiscal and monetary policy reactions that helped to mitigate the economic impact of the COVID 19 
pandemic.  
4.273.   As with many countries, China has continued the long term structural changes in its 
economy, shifting away from agriculture and industry to services. Services now make up some 55% 
of GDP , and export figures from the services sector, especially from the business, transport and 
travel sectors, are truly impressive, amounting to USD 235 billion in 2020, although it remains in 
deficit, with imports of around USD 380 billion in 2020.  
4.274.   It is not eworthy that, in recent years, China continued to aim at expanding international 
trade and investment, as outlined in the five year plans and various administrative measures.  
4.275.   Efforts to address climate change issues were also noticeable within China's trad e policy 
framework. The main ongoing actions in this regard include industrial restructuring, energy structure 
optimization, energy conservation and efficiency, and the establishment of a carbon emissions 
trading market.  
4.276.   It is noteworthy that China's exten sive network of trade agreements, with more than 19 
regional trade agreements (RTAs) with 26 countries and new agreements continually being 
negotiated.  
4.277.   In the multilateral framework, China's active participation in various WTO issues is 
noteworthy, as the country places great emphasis on the importance of the WTO as the multilateral 
system's forum for agreeing disciplines and commitments aimed at reducing international barriers 
to trade. It is especially active on several negotiating fronts, including fishe ries subsidies, agriculture, 
and domestic regulation.  
4.278.   We commend China on the significant number of notifications it has submitted to the WTO 
Secretariat during the review period. However, it should be noted that some notifications remain 
outstanding and w e encourage the Chinese authorities to comply with their transparency 
commitments.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 40 - 
 
  4.279.   In the same vein, we note with concern the high number of trade defence measures 
implemented by China, which even affect Salvadoran products with great export potential.  
4.280.   At the bilateral level, although trade between our countries is currently modest, we have 
high expectations of strengthening these relations in the near future.  
4.281.   It only remains for us to wish China every success in this Review.  
CANADA  
4.282.   This year marks the 20th  anniversary since China joined the WTO. Over this period, China’s 
economic reforms have been a key driver of economic development. When China joined the WTO, 
its GDP per capita was a little over USD 900; today Ch ina’s GDP per capita is over USD 10,000, an d 
China is on track to surpass the World Bank’s high -income country th reshold. Canada commends 
China for its achievements in lifting hundreds of millions out of poverty and providing prosperity to 
its citizens.  
4.283.   Canada welcomes this Trade Policy Review and  wishes to highlight many of China’s positive 
contributions to the WTO. At the same time, we must also share our general and specific concerns 
regarding China’s commitment to open, transparent, rules -based trade.  
4.284.   China’s development has benefited greatly f rom the rules -based trading system supported 
by the WTO. With this comes the responsibility to uphold and defend WTO principles. While China 
has supported many of these principles, its commitment to market -oriented policies has been 
insufficient. The Marra kesh Declaration reaffirms a rules -based multilateral trading system “based 
upon open, market -oriented policies”, and commitments to non -discrimination and transparency 
that are also fundamental to the WTO.  
4.285.   China’s shortcomings in its commitments are also  evident in regard to state -owned 
enterprises. We are concerned when the Chinese G overnment accords its SOEs preferential 
treatment, subsidies, and direct access to contracts in a non -transparent manner. We are also 
concerned about the impact on third -country markets where China’s support for SOEs has an impact.  
4.286.   Another area of concern is China’s extensive use of subsidies that lead to trade  distortions 
and overcapacity. In this regard, we would, for example, like to see China come back to the G20 
Global F orum on Steel Excess Capacity.  
4.287.   China’s regulatory processes continue to be unclear and unpredictable. For example, the new 
Regulations on the Security Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure provide only a vague 
definition of “critical informatio n infrastructure” making it difficult for foreign companies established 
in China to determine whether their networks in China meet the definition and whether they are 
subject to the regulations.  
4.288.   We applaud China for reducing its MFN applied tariffs on a w ide range of products in January. 
While any tariff reduction is notable, China continues to maintain MFN tariffs on a wide range of 
wood and paper products for which it provides preferential duty -free access to certain Members, 
despite its WTO accession co mmitment to extend any preferential tariff treatment to all imports of 
wood and paper products on an MFN basis. We also note that China generally provides notifications 
on time but in case of agriculture, Canada would like to point out that China is behind  in its domestic 
support notifications. This lack of up to date notifications is an important ga p in agriculture 
transparency.  
4.289.   China’s non -tariff barriers continue to cause significant disruptions to trade. For example, 
Canadian agri -food exporters continue to experience a lack of transparency and predictability with 
respect to China’s application of SPS measures, and we continue to experience significant undue 
delays in China’s approval procedures.  
4.290.   Most troubling, Canada has noted a recent pattern regarding China’s growing willingness to 
deploy economic coercive measures to block or otherwise hinder trade in respon se to political  
disagreements. The use and threat of use of arbitrary, and discriminatory restrictions, or other 
commercial measures challenges and destabilizes the rules -based international order and its very WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 41 - 
 
  institutions to which China, Canada and all WTO members have benefited. This troubling pattern is 
particularly evident in China’s use of TBT and SPS measures to block or otherwise hinder trade in 
response to political issues. For example, Canadian canola seed exports to China continue to be 
arbitrarily and unjustifi ably restricted. That is why Canada has requested the establishment of a 
WTO panel on this matter.  
4.291.   In addition, Canada remains concerned that measures adopted by China in 2020 to 
temporarily suspend exports from meat and fish establishments due to China’s alleged concerns 
regarding COVID -19 transmission remain in place despite recent findings from the FAO/WHO which 
point to the contrary. With no scientific evidence to support these measures, the continued 
suspension can only be viewed now as a tool to block  trade. We urge China to base its SPS measures 
on sound science and to take into account the updated FAO/WHO guidance that confirms that food 
and food packaging does not present a risk of transmission of COVID -19. 
4.292.   We remain concerned that other new regulat ions in China , notably Decree 248 and 
Decree  249, create unjustified disruptions and delays for Canadian food exporters. We ask China to, 
at the very least, provide more clarity on these two decrees and to delay implementation for eighteen 
months.   
4.293.   We wel come China’s efforts to increase the transparency, predictability and effectiveness of 
its intellectual property regime in order to address ongoing concerns in areas such as registration, 
bad-faith behaviour in the trademark system, and infringement. The r isk of trade secret theft 
remains a concern, particularly when product registration requirements go far beyond what is 
necessary and least trade restrictive for health and safety.  
4.294.   We recognize that China is taking steps to create a more attractive investment environment, 
and we welcome the negative list approach China has begun to adopt. However, there remains a 
continued lack of clarity in many important provisions in key pieces of legislation. Foreign investors 
in some industries also s till face pressure to establish joint -ventures and transfer technology and 
remain burdened with local content requirements and foreign equity caps.  
4.295.   Canada encourages China to address the environmental and labour challenges that have 
accompanied rapid econ omic development. Serious allegations have been made that forced labour 
is endemic in China’s agricultural, textile and garment, automotive, fisheries, and technological 
industries. Canada requests further transparency by China on this issue.  
4.296.   We welcome C hinese leadership at the WTO and commend China for its participation in the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arrangement. We also recognize China’s support of the Buenos Aires 
Declaration on Women’s Economic Empowerment and encourage China to actively participat e in the 
implementation of the second phase of this declaration. We also commend China for its participation 
in the WTO Informal Working Group on MSMEs and for its constructive engagement in the joint 
statement initiatives on investment facilitation for de velopment, e -commerce, and services domestic 
regulation. We also welcome China’s engagement on environmental issues at the WTO and hope 
that China will co -sponsor the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussion 
ministerial statement.  
4.297.   Finally, we look forward to learning more about China’s efforts to undertake meaningful 
reforms toward a more market -oriented economy with a higher level of legal and regulatory 
transparency. Canada calls on China to demonstrate that its model of capitalism can  be compatible 
with the WTO system and to take the steps necessary to address the concerns and criticisms that 
have been raised. We also call on China to support and promote the rules -based order so that it can 
continue to bring prosperity to its own citiz ens and to those around the world.   
PHILIPPINES  
4.298.   At the outset, the Philippines associates itself with the ASEA N statement delivered by 
Brunei  Darussalam, highlighting the longstanding robust eco -nomic relationship between the 
People’s Republic of China an d the ASEAN members S tates.  
4.299.   The Philippine delegation warmly welcomes and congratulates the Chinese delegation led by 
Minister Wang Wentao and Vice Minister Wang Shouwen of the Ministry of Commerce, and WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 42 - 
 
  Ambassador Li Chenggang of the Permanent Mission of t he People’s Republic of China to the WTO 
on their 8th Trade Policy Review. We also thank Ambassador Xolelwa  Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa 
for her insightful comments as discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for a comprehensive report.  
4.300.   Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between th e Philippines and China in 
June 1975, the bilateral partnership between our two countries has reached unprecedented levels. 
Over the past 40 years, the Philippines -China bilateral relations continue to strengthen by conclu ding 
almost 100 bilateral agreements that cover a wide spectrum, namely, trade and investments, 
political, defence , judicial cooperation, infrastructure development, energy cooperation, air services, 
cooperation in combating transnational crimes, consular cooperation, tourism, culture, sports, media 
exchange, agriculture, science and technology, sister cities, and people -to-people ex changes . These 
reflect the breadth and depth of the growing cooperation be tween  our two countries.  
4.301.   China remained as the Phili ppines’ top trading partner in 2020 with total bilateral trade 
valued at USD 30.7 billion. China has been the Philippines’ top trading partner since 2016. In the 
past five years, total bilateral trade has consistently increased despite the understandable d ecline in 
2020 due to the COVID -19 pandemic. China was also the Philippines’ second highest source of 
foreign investments in 2020 with total investments amounting to USD 314 Million.  
4.302.   The Philippines continues to value its partnership with China and is kee n to pursue deeper 
and more meaningful engagements particularly in the areas of trade, investments, and economic 
cooperation. The Philippines -China Joint Commission on Economic and Trade Cooperation (JCETC) 
has served as the primary bilateral mechanism for  discussions on these matters. The Philippines has 
also committed to continue participation in major national level promotion events in China to further 
strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations.  
4.303.   China is a politically and economically significa nt player in global trade. Despite the slowdown 
in growth rates caused by the COVID -19 pandemic, the Chinese economy continues to be a major 
driver of global growth, and its convergence with advanced economies continues. Its rapid economic 
development over  the last decades, induced by market -oriented reforms, lifted hundreds of millions 
of its people out of poverty.  
4.304.   The Philippines recognizes China’s 14th Five -Year Plan for Economic and Social Development 
(2021 -25), which aims to achieve “sustained and heal thy” economic development in 2021 -2025 with 
a focus on higher quality growth. The plan lays out a goal to raise per capita GDP levels to those of 
a moderately developed country by 2035, while strengthening its technological capacities, 
developing a robust domestic market, and reaffirming a significant green transformation of 
production and lifestyles.  
4.305.   The Philippines also notes China’s Five -Year Plans and various Administrative Measures 
aimed at expanding international trade and investments. In pursuit of its trade policy objectives, 
China accords a leading role to the multilateral trading system and regional trade agreements (RTAS) 
in which it participates. As of February 2021, it has signed 19 RTAs with 26 counties and territories, 
including the recently signed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement.  
4.306.   Since its accession to the WTO in 2001, China has been an active participant in the various 
works of the WTO. It also played an important role in hosting the Informal WTO Ministerial Mee ting 
in Shanghai in November 2019 where Ministers exchanged ideas on issues safeguarding the 
multilateral trading system, working towards a successful 12th Ministerial Conference (M12) and 
supporting the necessary reform of the WTO.  
4.307.   China actively particip ates in preparing the MC12 outcomes by engaging in various WTO 
negotiations, including the WTO reform, fisheries subsidies, addressing the impact of the COVID -19 
pandemic, agriculture, electronic commerce, investment facilitation for development, and domes tic 
regulation in services.  
4.308.   The Philippines welcomes China’s strong support on the MSMEs initiative. As member of the 
Informal Working Group on MSMEs, China has co -sponsored the joint statement in May 2020 to 
support MSMEs in response to COVID -19, and sub sequently the MSME package adopted in December 
2020 marking a major step forward in supporting MSMEs’ participation in international trade.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 43 - 
 
  4.309.   The Philippines has submitted advance written questions on the TPR reports and we thank 
the delegation of China for their prompt replies.  
4.310.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with China in the bilateral, regional, and multi lateral  fora. 
CHILE  
4.311.   Chile would like to extend warm and fraternal greetings to the delegation of China, headed 
by His Excellency Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, and to the Permanent Mission of China 
to the WTO, especially to its Ambassador Mr Li Chenggang, with whom we hope to continue 
contributing to the strengthe ning of the multilateral trading system.  
4.312.   I would also like to congratulate HE Ambassador Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi Peter of South Africa 
for her work as discussant for this Trade Policy Review.  
4.313.   I am making this intervention on behalf of Ambassador Francke, who is unable to be present 
at this Review as he is chairing the negotiations on investment facilitation.  
4.314.   Chile takes special interest the eighth Trade Policy Review of China. It would be difficult to 
understand the global trade situation without considering t he important role that China has played 
in recent years, particularly since its accession to the WTO, as an important driver of world economic 
growth.  
4.315.   Bilateral relations between Chile and China date back to 1970, when Chile became the first 
country in Sou th America to establish diplomatic relations with China.  
4.316.   It is a link that has proven particularly stable over the years, as well as fruitful; together we 
have been promoting greater integration through the development of political, trade and cultural 
dialogue at the highest level.  
4.317.   Our economic and trade relations revolve around a comprehensive free trade agreement, in 
force since 2006, making Chile the first country outside the Asian continent to conclude an 
agreement on that scale. Under this agreement, a  supplementary agreement on services was signed, 
which entered into force in 2010, and was the second agreement of this nature established by China. 
Subsequently, in 2014 the Supplementary Investment Agreement came into force, marking another 
important mil estone in our fruitful economic trade relationship. Then, 2016 saw the creation of the 
Integral Strategic Association with China, a move which helped to promote the mechanisms for 
sectoral coordination and dialogue at the bilateral level. This was the cons olidation of long term 
efforts that, in trade, led to the signing of a free trade agreement.  
4.318.   The Free Trade Agreement between Chile and China has therefore become a central 
component of our bilateral relations and, thanks to its successful implementation a nd administration, 
China has become firmly established as Chile's main trading partner, with a total value of around 
USD 45 billion traded in 2020, which accounts for 33.9% of Chile's total trade.  
4.319.   Exports to China in 2020 totalled around USD 27.4 billion, or 38.85% of total exports, and 
imports from China in 2020 totalled USD 16.39 billion, representing 27.79% of total imports.  
4.320.   In terms of foreign investment, it should be noted that this is a relatively recent 
phenomenon, but today China has become one of t he main foreign investors in Chile, in the 
important sectors of energy, technology and research and development.  
4.321.   This growth can be seen not only at the bilateral level, but also at the multilateral level, 
where we participate together in various internati onal organizations and forums.  
4.322.   We recall that, in 1999, Chile was the first Latin American country to support China's 
accession to the WTO and that since joining China has become an extremely important player in this 
Organization, bringing with it enormous  responsibilities in terms of the implementation of the WTO 
Agreements and the negotiations. Today, it participates in the Information Technology Agreement 
(ITA) and is part of joint statement initiatives on electronic commerce, domestic regulation on WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 44 - 
 
  services, investment facilitation for development and MSMEs. It also promotes the Informal Dialogue 
on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade and has co sponsored proposals 
such as trade and health.  
4.323.   We value China's commitment to an open, transparent, inclusive and non discriminatory 
multilateral trading system, based on clear rules under which to promote free trade in goods and 
services. This commitment must be in keeping with the challenges facing us today, particularly when 
for tho se of us that currently figure prominently in international trade.  
4.324.   This Trade Policy Review has brought to light China's swift fiscal and monetary policy 
reactions that helped to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic. However, as a result of 
stabili zation measures, financial stability risks may have increased, which will be a major challenge 
for the near future.  
4.325.   Moreover, we appreciate initiatives taken by China to continue reducing its share of coal 
consumption, in line with the targets set for the development of green and low carbon energy in its 
domestic energy sector planning.  
4.326.   In addition, we note with great interest how China is keen to accelerate efforts to promote 
a development paradigm where domestic and international flows reinforce each othe r and how, 
within this framework, they are committed to harnessing innovation as the key driver, aiming to 
achieve a better alignment between an efficient market and a well functioning government that is 
committed to creating a market oriented, rule based and internationalized business environment.  
4.327.   Chile submitted 18 questions in connection with this Trade Policy Review exercise in areas 
such as: rules of origin; tariffs, anti dumping measures; and customs procedures. We are most 
grateful for the replies to  these questions.  
4.328.   Finally, we wish China a successful eighth Trade Policy Review.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.329.   New Zealand is pleased to participate in this Trade Policy Review, taking place two decades 
after China’s WTO accession, a process in which New Zealand was active ly engaged, and supported. 
Over this transformative period, China’s economy has made considerable advances, spurred in part 
by the reforms tied to that accession and its integration into the global economy, delivering 
remarkable improvements to living stan dards at home and becoming a major engine for growth of 
the world economy.  
4.330.   The growth in the New Zealand -China trade and economic relationship over this period is 
due in large part to the benefits of the rules -based trading system. Our bilateral free trad e 
agreement, which entered into force in 2008, continues to deliver significant benefits for both 
countries, and the FTA upgrade signed in January this year moderni zes and expands the agreement.  
4.331.   Looking to the next twenty years, New Zealand encourages Chin a to continue to advance 
trade and economic reforms and to play an active role to support and bolster the rules -based 
multilateral trading system. We see it as crucial that China pursues these goals, in a manner which 
is consistent with and involves the co mprehensive implementation of its WTO obligations, given the 
size and importance of its economy and in recognition of the benefits the system continues to deliver, 
both to China and as a global good.  
4.332.   We welcome China’s stated commitment to continued trade  liberali zation, and commend the 
reforms undertaken during the review period, including such measures as tariff reductions, continued 
expansion of Pilot Free Trade Zones, trade facilitation initiatives, expansion of the single window, 
and the introduction of a negative list regime for foreign investment.  
4.333.   New Zealand also recogni zes China’s commitment to regional economic integration. The 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, concluded last year, was an important development 
and promises to support th e region’s trade recovery and economic growth following its entry into 
force in the coming months. China also recently submitted a request to accede to the Comprehensive 
and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership. This would require new and de eper reforms WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 45 - 
 
  to meet the agreement’s high standards and market access commitments. CPTPP accessions involve, 
inter alia, aspirants’ clear commitment to promote transparency, predictability, and confidence in 
the rules -based trading system; and assurances t hat commitments to meet the high standards of 
the CPTPP made during the accession process will be adhered to.  
4.334.   In recent years, the world has experienced unprecedented change due to the impact of 
COVID -19. In addition, we have seen an increase in protection ist measures which have threatened 
the integrity of the multilateral trading system. It is therefore more important than ever that all WTO 
members uphold the rules of global trade, and ensure COVID -related measures are no more 
restrictive than necessary to  address the challenges which COVID poses.  
4.335.   New Zealand has joined as a third party Australia’s WTO case with China related to barley. 
New Zealand is participating in this dispute as a third party because it raises systemic issues of 
importance to the effe ctive functioning of the multilater al rules -based trading system. New Zealand’s 
participation in such cases reflects the importance we place on upholding international rules and 
norms, and ensuring international trade rules are fairly applied by others.  
4.336.   More broadly, New Zealand is concerned with trade measures by WTO members that cause 
widespread disruption to trade and lack transparency, and underlines its concern in this regard about 
the actions undertaken against a range of Australian exports, includin g wine, lobster, and beef.  
These measures risk to undermine the rules -based trading system on which we all rely, and which 
New Zealand sees as the responsibility of all large members to support. New Zealand urges China 
to engage with Australia to resolve these issues in a manner that is consistent with its WTO 
commitments.  
4.337.   The WTO Trade Policy Review process is an important transparency and review mechanism. 
We appreciate this opportunity to seek clarification from China on aspects of its trade and econom ic 
policies.  
4.338.   We welcome the efforts China has made to address climate change issues within its economic 
and trade policy framework, as outlined in the Secretariat’s report, including industrial restructuring, 
energy conservation and efficiency, and the est ablishment of a carbon emissions trading market. 
New Zealand looks forward to China providing further details on the actions it will be taking to meet 
its important 2030 and 2060 carbon emissions targets.   
4.339.   New Zealand notes that, during the review period, China submitted various notifications to 
the WTO, however, some notifications remain outstanding. New Zealand is concerned that 
notifications on agricultural domestic support and state trading enterprises h ave been outstanding 
for several years. Noting all M embers’ shared interest in ensuring the transparency on which the 
WTO system depends to operate effectively, and our comments to this effect at China’s last Trade 
Policy Review, New Zealand encourages Chi na to redouble its efforts to provide timely and 
comprehensive notifications going forward.  
4.340.   Similarly, New Zealand welcomes China’s latest notification on subsidies covering the years 
2019 and 2020, but notes the Secretariat’s comments about the difficult y of obtaining a clear overall 
picture of China’s support programmes given gaps in these notifications. New Zealand is particularly 
interested in information on how China will ensure transparency of its existing subsidy policies; and, 
in support of an ambi tious outcome on fisheries subsidies at MC12, how China intends to reform 
subsidies that contribute to  overcapacity and overfishing.  
4.341.   Fossil fuel subsidy reform is critical to global efforts to improve the environment, reduce 
economic distortions and enhance trade flows. New Zealand encourages China to take further steps 
in this area, building on its early leadership in the G20, includin g in its implementation of the 
UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  
4.342.   As noted, New Zealand is a strong supporter of WTO transparency mechanisms such as 
Trade Policy Reviews, as they play an essential role in allowing Members to better understand, rev iew 
and question the policies and practices of other WTO members, with a view to encouraging 
approaches that strengthen the rules -based multilateral trading system that serves our common 
interest. We therefore look forward to China being actively involved in this process, and providing 
comprehensive responses to the questions submitted.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 46 - 
 
  UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.343.   The United Kingdom’s Trade Se cretary, Anne Marie Trevelyan, has asked me to relay her 
thanks to the Chair, as well as our discussant Ambassador Mlumbi -Peter, for facilitating this Trade 
Policy Review. I would like to convey my thanks to the WTO Secretariat for their hard work in 
producing the report. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to the delega tion from Beijing, 
headed up by  H.E. Mr.  Wang Wentao.  
4.344.   This year marks twenty years since China joined the WTO. In that time the global trading 
landscape and China’s role within it has changed significantly. China’s share of global trade increased 
from approximately 8.5% to almost 11% in the decade to 2019 and i s expected to increase to 
approximately 12% by 2030. This increase in trade has been a major contributor to China’s growth 
and has helped lift millions out of poverty. May I congratulate China on behalf of the United Kingdom 
for this significant achievemen t.  
4.345.   All of this is possible because we have an open, rules -based, transparent, and non -
discriminatory global trading system. We look to China to play a full and responsible role upholding 
this arrangement, including by agreeing to take up commitments which  are commensurate with its 
level of development and economic capability. In the context of the fisheries subsidies negotiations, 
we have heard China say that it does not intend to take up wide -ranging special and differential 
treatment. We welcome that dir ection of travel and look forward to seeing how that commitment is 
made concrete through the negotiations and in wider discussions at the WTO.   
4.346.   The United Kingdom recogni zes the recent progress China has made to open its markets to 
international trade and  investment. We welcome China’s engagement with plurilateral initiatives 
such as the JSI on investment facilitation, the E -Commerce JSI and domestic regulation JSI, as well 
as the Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plas tics. Changes 
made by China to reform and liberali ze will benefit both WTO members and Chinese citizens alike. 
And they also support China’s own economic development.  
4.347.   The success of China’s economic development means it has reached a point where the pace,  
scale and implementation of its market opening needs to a ccelerate. This will give more meaning to 
China’s own calls for an open, rules -based, transparent, and non -discriminatory trading system.  
4.348.   I would now like highlight several areas that the United Kin gdom believes require China’s 
attention and action.  
4.349.   Chinese firms continue to enjoy much higher levels of access in overseas markets than their 
foreign co unterparts enjoy within China. This lack of reciprocity is accompanied by a growing 
perception of unf airness amongst many WTO members which should also be of concern to China.  
4.350.   The challenge is not merely one of formal market access. Despite improvements in detection 
and seizure of infringing goods, counterfeits continue to be produced and exported at hig h levels. 
Foreign businesses continue to report significant concerns relating to equal treatment with local 
companies, inconsistent application of regulations, subjective licensing regimes, opaque 
phytosanitary requirements, hidden subsidies, and restricte d public procurement.  
4.351.   As the WTO Secretariat’s report makes clear to us, the size of China’s economy and 
government support programmes to industrial sectors can and do significantly distort the market in 
China’s favour and to the detriment of foreign firms  and free and fair international trade.  
4.352.   We are also concerned about the centrality of state -owned enterprises to China’s industrial 
strategies, and the opacity of their operations. These SOEs number at around 326,000 and account 
for over 20 of China’s 25 l argest businesses. This market dominance, and the way such SOEs 
operate, disadvantages both domestic private firms and foreign firms. We recall, in this context that 
China has committed through its Accession Protocol (and repeated in the Chinese government ’s 
report to the WTO ahead of this review) not to interfere with the operation and management of 
state-owned enterprises.  
4.353.   The onus is on China to be much more transparent in demonstrating that state -owned 
enterprises operate as normal market actors.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 47 - 
 
  4.354.   Increa sed transparency is key to raising confidence in China’s policy intentions. With that in 
mind, we call on the Chinese Government to commit to publishing all materials related its three -year 
reform plan for its state -owned enterprises, so that it is clear w hat is and is not being directed by 
government.  
4.355.   Staying with the topic of transparency, we also share the concerns raised by other Members 
about China’s continued lack of compliance with transparency obligations under the Agreement on 
Subsidies and Counte rvailing Measures.  
4.356.   We also want to highlight that we closely monitor reports of China’s trade actions being 
deliberately targeted against goods of some co untries for political reasons. Market participants will 
draw their own conclusions.  In the long -term, such actions may undermine market confidence that 
China does indeed want the open, rules -based, transparent, and non -discriminatory system, which 
it says it does. This is another area where China could act with greater transparency.  
4.357.   Forced labour, wh erever and whenever it occurs, is unacceptable. We call on China to ratify 
and effectively implement the ILO Forced Labour Convention including its 2014 Protocol and the 
Abolitio n of Forced Labour Convention. We will continue to monitor Chinese actions thr ough the WTO 
and in the ILO.  
4.358.   To conclude , China’s transformation in the last 20 years has been remarkable, and China 
should take great credit for that. But as a trading superpower, China now has a special responsibility 
to ensure it practices free and fai r trade. The United Kingdom looks forward to continuing working 
with China with a sense of shared responsibility to safeguard and strengthen the multilateral trading 
system, of which we are both a part.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.359.   On behalf of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I would 
like to join others in welcoming the delegation of China, headed by Mr. Wang  Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce, for its 8th TPR. We also like to thank the dis cussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter 
for her insightful remarks, and the Secretariat for its informative report.  
4.360.   We are China’s the 6th largest trading partner, the 2nd import source and the 10th export 
destination, with trade volume over USD 166 billi on in 2020.  
4.361.   As one of China’s major trading partners, we are pleased to note that since its last review in 
2018, China has remained one of major driving forces of the global economic growth, and has been 
recovered from the pandemic of COVID -19 relatively w ell, with its economic growth projected to 6% 
this year. We commend this achievement.  
4.362.   In addition, we would also like  to make the following comments.  
4.363.   On trade liberalization, China's simple average applied MFN rate was lowered from 9.3% in 
2017 to 7.1% in  2021, and the percentage of tariff lines bearing rates higher than 15% lowered 
from 13.9% in 2017 to 4.5% in 2021. We commend the efforts and would encourage China to 
continue its endeavour  toward this direction.  
4.364.   Meanwhile, we noted during the review period, China had been involved in 11 trade disputes 
as respondent, 25 Special Trade Concerns on TBT and 13 on SPS. We urge China to positively 
respond to Members’ enquiries and requests for consultations, and to remove unnecessary trade 
restriction s that are inconsistent with WTO rules.  
4.365.   On investment liberalization, China took steps to allow increased foreign participation in 
certain sectors, such as the mining and energy sectors. However, there are still many restrictions 
on foreign investments as provided in its National Negative List. We encourage China to continue its 
investment liberalization, reforming its state -owned enterprises and adopting more market -oriented 
policies.  
4.366.   We learned from the report that China continues to reduce its coal consu mption, in line with 
objectives set forth in the “13th Five -Year Plan for Energy Development.” However, we also noted WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 48 - 
 
  that recently, power supply shortages spread to many provinces, including Jiangsu, Zhejiang and 
Guangdong, where many factories of our inv estors located. This might impact not only the economic 
growth of China, but also the stability of global supply chain. We wish China could overcome this 
difficulty while pursuing the goal of sustainable development.  
4.367.   We thank China for responding to our wr itten questions, which broadly relate to topics such 
as financial stability, trade and investment regime, excessive steel capacity and China’s SPS 
regulations on concerned quarantine pests for imported plants and plant products. We thank China 
for its resp onses and will study carefully to see whether there are still issues needed to be clarified. 
We also look forward to resolving our bilateral SPS issues as soon as possible.  
4.368.   Our Mission stands ready to engage constructively with the delegation of China on v arious 
multilateral topics.  
4.369.   We wish China a co nstructive and successful Trade Policy R eview.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.370.   The European Union welcomes China’s Trade Policy Review at an important milestone - two 
decades since China’s accession to the WTO.  
4.371.   Some of us pres ent here today can remember how significant WT O Membership was for 
China in 2001, after fourteen long years of very tough negotiations. Twenty years later, we can 
safely say that those who pressed for this in China have been vindicated fully; as the stable  access 
to world markets WTO membership provides, has contributed so significantly to China’s remarkable 
economic performance. China’s GDP per capita has doubled every eight or so years and now equals 
that of some EU Member States. It has become the world’ s second largest economy.  
4.372.   China’s WTO M embership had created expectations of further liberali zation and of movement 
towards a full market -based economy. We were looking forward to the reform process and openin g 
up continuing at high speed. But the degree to which China has reformed and opened today is not 
commensurate with its weight in the global economy, or comparable to the access which China has 
to the markets of other WTO Members. Moreover, the influence exerted by the state on China’s 
economic environment generates competitive distortions worldwide, leading to systemic problems 
for global trad e. 
4.373.   The European Union believes that China should re -engage an opening -up effort and adopt 
further market reforms. It should also assume its responsibility and play a role in the WTO that 
matches its economic weight.  
4.374.   The EU appreciates China’s efforts to pl ay a constructive role in many areas in the WTO, 
such as its co -sponsorship of the Trade and Health Initiative, its involvement in the Joint Statement 
Initiatives or its cooperation on the multi -party interim appeal arrangement.  
4.375.   However, despite these cont ributions, China should step up its commitment in a number of 
ways.  
4.376.   One way for China to show leadership would be by refraining from claiming benefits that 
would correspond to a developing country in ongoing negotiations.  
4.377.   Another area highlighted by the R eport is the need to improve compliance with notification 
obligations across the board, including on industrial subsidies and agricultural support.  
4.378.   The EU also reminds China of its commitment, in the context of its GPA accession bid, to 
implement a transpa rent and non -discriminatory public procurement framework.  
4.379.   A long standing  EU concern is the competition distortions caused by the activities of State -
owned enterprises. Chinese SOEs are major beneficiaries and providers of opaque subsidies and are 
often re sponsible for overcapacity, distorted prices, and discriminatory behaviour. The EU calls on 
China to fully observe its WTO accession commitments by improving transparency and by eliminating 
these distortions.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 49 - 
 
  4.380.   The European Union also wishes to refer to some  other worrying policy trends from China 
that are intensifying. We acknowledge some positive changes, such as openings in the financial 
sector following the adoption of the Foreign Investment Law, or improvements in China’s intellectual 
property regime. Ho wever, these changes are insufficient – investment restrictions remain in a range 
of sectors, and EU IP right holders continue facing difficulties for effective enforcement.  
4.381.   Moreover, these positive changes do not alter the overall policy direction that w e discern.  
4.382.   European businesses are concerned about the increasing politici zation of China’s business 
environment. Economic pressure on companies’ operations that seem motivated by political 
considerations runs against the spirit of the WTO.  
4.383.   Another concern  is China’s expansive use of an excessively broad concept of national 
security, negatively affecting foreign companies.  
4.384.   One example is China’s new measures on data security, privacy and critical infrastructure. 
While the EU acknowledges the need for effect ive cybersecurity measures, these should be 
proportionate, technology -neutral and based on objective standards.  
4.385.   China’s stringent Covid -19-related restrictions are another cause for concern for EU traders. 
The EU encourages China to review its travel rest rictions and extend trade -facilitating measures to 
food and agriculture products in line with international scientific consensus.  
4.386.   Finally, the EU is worried that China’s new “dual circulation” strategy will lead to further 
reversal of economic reform and m arket opening and aggravate global imbalances. China should 
also refrain from engaging in managed trade, which goes against the principles WTO members 
subscribe to. The EU urges China to ensure an open, non -discriminatory business environment, and 
address state intervention generating competitive distortions in China and across the globe.  
4.387.   It has become increasingly clear that such distortions cannot be sufficiently addressed by 
current WTO rules. The EU believes that in addition to China’s individual respon sibility, a collective 
effort towards modernizing the WTO rulebook is necessary.  
4.388.   The EU calls on China to contribute to WTO reform efforts to ensure that the WTO remains 
a strong and credible Organization capable of providing a stable foundation for econo mic recovery 
and growth, as well as a level playing field for all of its Members.  
4.389.   We encourage China to continue working in this direction while fully aligning its rules and 
policies to the letter and spirit of the WTO Agreement and emphasize that our stat ement today 
reflects the value the Union attaches to a trade and investment relation with China that is rules -
based, both multilaterally and bilaterally.  
ICELAND  
4.390.   Iceland joins others in welcoming the distinguished delegation of China to their eighth trade 
policy review. We also express appreciation to the WTO Secretariat and China for the reports 
prepared, as well as to the discussant for his excellent framing of t he issues for our discussion today.  
4.391.   Iceland was the first European country to finalize a free trade agreement with China in 2013. 
The agreement has served both our countries well in promoting mutually beneficial cooperation and 
trade, which has increased steadily since it entered into force.  
4.392.   The outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic has heavily impacted the world economy. China’s 
economy, which has been one of the major drivers of global growth, was severely affected, as is 
well outlined in t he Trade Policy R eview report.  
4.393.   Iceland is encouraged by China’s recent efforts to accelerate measures to eliminate harmful 
fisheries subsidies and enhance international compliance capabilities. We urge China to play a 
constructive role in reaching a meaningful and effectiv e outcome on fisheries subsidies at MC12.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 50 - 
 
  4.394.   Iceland has submitted advance written questions regarding potentially harmful subsidies to 
the fisheries sector in China, financial support to the aluminum sector, SPS measures that have 
negatively affected our exporting companies and on foreign investments in the energy sector; and 
we thank China for the answers, which we will review. We urge China to ensure that its SPS measures 
are consistent with its WTO commitments.  
4.395.   Iceland appreciates China’s stated commitm ent to open trade and the multilateral trading 
system. To achieve that shared goal, we expect China to fully abide by its WTO commitments, to 
protect the rights of workers and to accelerate reform measures to promote a more level playing 
field in key secto rs. 
4.396.   As we look towards global economic recovery, it is important to recall that women still face 
disproportionate barriers that prevent them from fully participating in international trade. These 
barriers, that have increased due to the pandemic, need to b e addressed with an inclusive approach 
towards economic recovery. Ensuring that women’s full economic rights will be a factored 
contribution towards sustainabl e social economic development.  
4.397.   Iceland welcomes the active participation of China in the Informal  Working Group on Trade 
and Gender, established last year following the Buenos Aires Declaration on women’s e conomic 
empowerment from 2017.  
4.398.   An important tool in advancing women’s economic empowerment is the use of data and 
indicators on gender equality in trade. Since 2018, 55% of WTO Members whose Trade Policy Review 
was carried out provided information on their gend er-responsive trade policies.  
4.399.   This is a positive trend as the trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share 
best practices an d experiences relating to policies and programs that aim at women’s social and 
economic empowerment  and full inclusion in trade.  
4.400.   Iceland has submitted in advance written questions on the participation of women in the 
economy of China. Iceland welcomes Chin a’s replies - the answers will be useful as we continue to 
gather information on best practices.  
4.401.   We wish the delegation of China every success for their Trade Policy Review.  
SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.402.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very pleased to take part in the eigh th Trade Policy Review 
of China and wishes to extend a very warm welcome to its distingu ished delegation headed by 
H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce.  
4.403.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia thanks China and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed and 
comprehen sive Trade Policy Review Reports. We also thank the discussant H.E. Ms. Xolelwa 
Mlumbi -Peter Ambassador and Permanent Representative of South Africa to the WTO for her 
insightful comments.  
4.404.   Despite the major impact of the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic o n the China’s economy 
which caused the economy to be contracted by 6.8% in the early 2020, fiscal and m onetary policies 
taken by the government in facing these challenges helped the economy to recover starting from 
the mid -2020 which resulted in a GDP grow th of 2.3% in 2020 and expected growth of 6% in 2021.  
4.405.   China accords a leading role to the rules -based multilateral trading system and regional trade 
agreements (RTAs) to continue its development and growth. China is to be commended for its 
integration into  the world economy by singing RTAs with 16 countries during the review period, and 
by the end of February 2021, China had signed 19 RTAs with 26 countries and territories.  
4.406.   We also praise China for its performance in many areas such as its continued expansi on of 
its international trade and investments, its performance in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) both 
inward and outward, adoption  of new Foreign Investment Law and  new Export Control Law, 
availability of various tax incentives to foreign -invested enterpr ises, reduction of its tariff -rate in 
nearly all product categories, liberalization in mining sector and financial sector to increase foreign WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 51 - 
 
  participation, its revision to the various laws and regulations related to TBT and SPS, its reforms to 
the intelle ctual property regime. Maintaining low inflation rates during the period under review, and 
its role as being a leading supplier of protective health equipment is commended as well.  
4.407.   Saudi Arabia has a strong trade relationship with China, which is supported  by their shared 
membership in the G20, and they are prominent trading partners. Trade exchange between the two 
countries grow by 43% over the past five years and exceeded USD 59 billion in 2020. Since 2014, 
China maintains being the 1st Saudi main trading  partner in terms of trade volume. The Saudi 
Chinese Business Council which was established in 2003 to promote communication and cooperation 
between business sectors in both countries and provide facilitations and supporting the relations of 
businessmen re mains very active in strengthen the economic relations and trade cooperation as well 
as enhancing the investment opportunities in the two countries.  
4.408.   China as an active Member of this O rganization continues to play a central role in the 
reinforcement of the  multilateral trading system. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia congratulates China 
for its solid economic performance.  
4.409.   Before I conclude, I  would like to thank H.E. Mr. Li  Chenggang Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of China to the WTO and his esteemed de legations for the excellent cooperation 
between our two missions which serves our mutual interests and thank them for their active 
engagement in all WTO activities.  
4.410.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
BRUNEI  DARUSSALAM  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.411.   It is a great pleasure to warmly welcome China’s delegation headed by His Excellency 
Mr. Wang Wentao to its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.412.   2021 is a special year for ASEAN and China, as we mar k the 30th anniversary of 
ASEAN -China dialogue relations. Amid the COVID -19 pandemic, we are heartened to note that trade 
and investment flows between China and ASEAN continued to stay strong. China has been ASEAN’s 
largest trading partner for the last twelve years. ASEAN also became Chi na’s largest trading partner 
in 2020. China and ASEAN continue to work closely to expand our trade and investment cooperation, 
including through enhancing the ASEAN -China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA), as well as through 
the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).  
4.413.   The establishment of the ACFTA has strengthened ASEAN and China’s economic relations. 
China has retained its position as ASEAN’s largest trading partner since 2009. Trade between ASEAN 
and China has more than doubled since 201 0, from USD 235.5 billion to USD 507.9 billion in 2019 
(18% of ASEAN’s total trade) and almost quadrupled since the entry into force of the ASEAN -China 
Trade in Goods Agreement in 2005. Despite the COVID -19 pandemic, the trade volume between 
ASEAN and Chin a from January to June 2020 increased by 2.2%. This meant that ASEAN has become 
China’s largest trading partner for the first time, making ASEAN and China each other’s top trading 
partner.  
4.414.   According to ASEAN’s statistics, while ASEAN’s exports rose by 79. 8% from USD 112.6 billion 
in 2010 to USD 202.5 billion in 2019, correspondingly ASEAN imports from China increased 
significantly by 148.4% from USD 123 billion to USD 305.4 billion. ASEAN’s exports to China grew 
at an average annual rate of 10.4% from 2010  to 2019 as compared to 12.5% for ASEAN’s import 
from China during the same period.  
4.415.   With regard to investment, in 2019, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flow from China to 
ASEAN has increased by 185% from USD 3.6 billion in 2010 to USD 9.1 billion in 2019, accounting 
for 5.7% total FDI flows to the region.  
4.416.   ASEAN acknowledges the assistanc e and contribution by China to ASEAN s uch as 
ASEAN -China Cooperation Fund (ACCF): China contributes annually to the ASEAN -China Cooperation 
Fund (ACCF) to support the implementation of ASEAN -China cooperation projects. ASEAN -China 
Grant: China’s grant of R MB 50 million (USD 7.3 million) to support the implementation of the ACFTA 
and other contribution.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 52 - 
 
  4.417.   ASEAN also acknowledges the important contributions by China in strengthening the World 
Trade Organization (WTO), including on the subject of WTO reform. Tog ether with China, ASEAN 
reaffirms our strong commitment to uphold an open, inclusive, transparent, non -discriminatory and 
rules-based multilateral trading system as embodied in the WTO.   
4.418.   Some ASEAN m ember States have submitted written questions to China. We would like to 
express our appreciation in advance to China, and look forward to having its written responses.  
4.419.   Finally, we would like to conclude our remarks by expre ssing, once again, our profound 
appreciation to the delegation of China for their hard w ork. Our appreciation also goes to H.E . Li 
Chengg ang, the Permanent Representative of China to the WTO and his team for their close and 
good cooperation between our Missions here in Geneva and wishes China every success in its 8th 
Trade Policy Review.  
MALA YSIA 
4.420.   Malaysia associates herself with the ASEAN statement delivered  by Brunei .  
4.421.   Malaysia is pleased to participate in the Eighth Trade Policy Review of the People’s Republic 
of China and extends a warm welcome to H.E. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, Chi na and his 
delegation. We thank China and the Secretariat for their respective efforts in preparing 
comprehensive review reports, and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter for her 
insightful comments.  
4.422.   During this review period, we observe th at China, under the leadership of Pr esident 
Xi Jinping, has adopted socialism with Chinese Characteristics for developing a New Era, in which 
China has been continually liberali zing and facilitating trade and investment.   
4.423.   In this respect, we join others t o commend China for actively engaging in the WTO processes 
and assuming a leading role, not only in the multilateral trading system, but also in the regional 
trade agreements (RTAs), such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).  
4.424.   Malaysia -China bilateral trade relation has expanded over the years and China continues to 
be Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 12 consecutive years since 2009. China is also Malaysia’s 
largest export destination, as well as import source. In 2020, Malaysia’s  total trade with China 
amounted to USD  78.98 billion, an increase of 4.7% year -on-year, in which total exports increased 
by 13.0% to USD  37.92, although total imports saw a decline of 2.6% to USD  41.06 billion, as 
compared to 2019.  
4.425.   On investment, as of J une 2021, a total of 592 industrial projects with Chinese interest were 
approved with total investments amounting to USD  20.1 billion. China is ranked as the 4th largest 
investor for the period 1980 until June 2021. These investment projects have created a  total of 
99,302 jobs.  
4.426.   For the current review, Malaysia has submitted written questions on areas such as sectoral 
performance and incentives. In general, Malaysia looks forward to obtaining further clarifications 
from China on these areas, as well as rules  and procedures relating to SPS and TBT, particularly in 
the context of post  COVID -19 period.  
4.427.   Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to thank the delegation of China for responding 
to our questions and we shall examine the responses with great int erest.  
4.428.   We wish the delegation of Chi na a productive and successful e ighth Trade Policy Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.429.   At the outset, the Bangladesh delegation welcomes H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce and Head of Delegation for his introductory presentatio n at the eighth  Trade Policy 
Review of China. Bangladesh delegation also thanks H.E. Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter,  Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative  of South Africa for her insightful discussions. Our sincere appreciations 
also go to the Government of China and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive reports.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 53 - 
 
  4.430.   During the period under review, we have noted that the Government of China has focused 
on carrying out many structural reforms including ensuring inclusive growth. The fundamentals of 
the Chinese economy remain strong, and this has ensured macroeconomic stability. Inflation is 
within limits and FDI inflows have increased significantly. We applau d the Government of China for 
the various reform measures that it has adopted in its trade and investment -related areas. Since 
China's last Trade Policy Review in 2018, Chinese economy has been a major driver of global growth. 
Real GDP growth rates fell fr om just under 7% in 2016 -18 to 6% in 2019 and 2.3% in 2020. It is 
encouraging to learn that with the expected normalization of the economic acti vities China’s growth 
is projected to reach 6% again in 2021.  
4.431.   We notice that the long -term structural shift fro m agriculture and industry towards services 
continued in China's economy during the review period. Services now make up some 55% of GDP.  
4.432.   For China, the high GDP growth rates and market -oriented reforms resulted in remarkable 
progress on poverty alleviatio n over the past decades. The outbreak of the COVID 19 pandemic had 
a major impact on Chinese economy that had contracted by 6.8%. However, from the mid -2020, 
the economy began to recover thanks to increased public investment and international trade.  
4.433.   As on e of the most important trading and development partners, Bangladesh is delighted to 
note the great strides that China has made in recent years. We enjoy excellent bilateral trade and 
economic relations. Bangladesh highly values its relationship with China  which happens to be its 
largest trading partner. However, the bilateral trade between the two countries is heavily tilted to 
China. Out of around USD 12.09 billion bilateral trade in FY20, Bangladesh's export to China 
accounted for only USD 0.60 billion w hile imports from China added up to a mammoth 
USD 11.49  billion.  
4.434.   Bangladesh and China also cooperate closely in fostering a rule -based, fair and equitable 
multilateral trade system. Development cooperation forms an integral part of the partnership. In 
recent years that the Chinese investment into Bangladesh has grown exponentially. Total Foreign 
Direct Investment (FDI) stock has increased at a rate 10.9 times between 2011 and 2019. 
Bangl adesh received a net FDI of USD 1.159 billion in FY19 from China, maki ng it one of the largest 
recipients in South Asia. Our energy sector has been the largest recipient of Chinese investment in 
recent years.  
4.435.   Bangladesh delegation expresses its sincere thanks to the Government and people of China 
for according duty -free and  quota free market access to Bangladeshi products. In this context, 
Bangladesh delegation would like to be enlightened on four issues:  
4.436.   first, if the Chinese Government plans to implement the “Preferential Rules of Origin for Least 
Developed Countries” dec ision adopted in Nairobi Ministerial Conference in 2015; second, if the 
Chinese Government has any plan to extend the DFQF scheme to the countries for a certain period 
after their graduation from the LDC category;  third, if China has any plan to encourage investment 
in Bangladesh which can reduce trade gap between Bangladesh and China; and finally, China’s 
efforts to promote a bigger role of the WTO and its expectation from the 12th M inisterial Conference . 
4.437.   We thank Chinese delegation in advance for the resp onses to our queries.  
4.438.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of China a productive and successful TPR. My delegation 
will continue to work closely with t he Chinese delegation  led by Ambassador H.E. Mr. Li Chenggang 
to strengthen multilateral trading system a s well as enhance our bilateral trade ties.  
INDONESIA  
4.439.   First, Indonesia would like to assoc iates its statement with ASEAN s tatement read by 
Ambassador Mazlizah Pengiran Mahalee, and extend its warm welcome to H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, 
Minister of Commerce and other members of the delegation to the Trade Policy Review of the 
People’s Republic of China.  
4.440.   Indonesia would also like to convey its appreciation to Chair of Trade Policy Review Body, 
Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme  of Botswana for the remarks, the 
discussant Her Excellency Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her insightful remark, and WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 54 - 
 
  our appreciation to WTO Secretariat and the delegation of China for their extensive reports in 
conducting the 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.441.   At the outset, Indonesia acknowledges China as major driver of economic growth. Since 
China’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, Indonesia is of the view that the 
accession is considered as a huge step forward in international  cooperation, and China’s participation 
in the multilateral trading system has played significant role.  
4.442.   Indonesia also appreciates China’s active contribution, engagement and continued support 
in G-33 to address challenges and issue of our common concerns  in agriculture trade negotiation.  
4.443.   China's rapid economic growth has been accompanied by some improvement in the trade 
and investment sectors. In recent years, Indonesia notes that China recorded USD 4,5 billion (2019) 
and USD 4,6 billion (2020) of total t rade to the world and with USD 16,490 billion GDP and 
USD 11,710 GDP per capita, China has experienced remarkable improvement in those areas.  
4.444.   In addition, China has become Indonesia’s No.1 major trading partner, serving as the 
country’s largest export and import market in Indonesia. In 2019, Indonesia reported that total 
bilateral trade with China reached USD 72.8 billion and USD 71.4 billion in  2020. Indonesia’s exports 
to China were recorded at USD 27.9 billion in 2019 and USD 31.78 billion in 2020, while the value 
of Indonesia’s imports from China recorded at USD 44.9 billion in 2019 and USD 39.6 billion in 2020.  
4.445.   Indonesia’s top 5 products ex ported to China are palm oil and its fractions, coal, gold, 
petroleum gas and ferro -alloys; and Indonesia’s main imported products from China are electronic 
integrated circuits, petroleum oils, iron ores, motor cars and telephone sets. Furthermore, China i s 
Indonesia’s second -biggest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that recorded at 
USD 4.8 billion in 2020 with more than 3,000 permanent licenses were issued on that particular 
year. Despite the fact that the trade deficit remains a major concern, tr ade between China and 
Indonesia has been growing and Indonesia's trade deficit with China has been approaching balance.  
4.446.   Indonesia recalls that China has been pursuing comprehensive cooperation in Free Trade 
Areas (FTA) alongside its commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system. Indonesia, 
China and 13 other countries has signed the establishment of Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Cooperation (RCEP), which aimed for facilitation of trade and investment, enhanced transparency in 
trade and investm ent, broaden and deepen the engagement among parties and to enhance parties’ 
participation in economic development of the region.  
4.447.   In this Trade Policy Review, Indonesia would like to highlight some of China’s policies and 
measures.  
4.448.   Referring to Secretariat  report, Indonesia learns that China has issued regulation to maintain 
import prohibition with complex requirements and procedures on wild animal to the pandemic while 
it also applied several incentives programmes which provided for certain sectors. Indone sia also 
notice that China has notified its new regulations, namely Decree 248 and Decree 249 that require 
the importers to include a registration number on packaging. Indonesia have submitted written 
questions that reflect our concerns, and we look forwar d to China’s responses and further clarification 
on the timeline of implementation, transition period, procedures and guideline on these Decrees.  
4.449.   Indonesia is also interested to learn China’s legislative and regulatory regime concerning 
Government Procurem ent; standards and technical requirements; state trading, state -owned 
enterprises and privatization; and trade remedies regulat ions, including safeguard, anti dumping and 
countervailing measures. Additionally, Indonesia is keen to understand the required re gistration for 
Chinese trademark policy; financial services regulation, including regulatory development in 
banking, insurance, pension fund and fintech industry; implementation and objective of The 
Economic and Social Development; and last but not least, the implementation of trade facilitation in 
China.  
4.450.   With respect to ongoing negotiation in the WTO, we appreciate that China continues to 
support the necessary reform work to improve the WTO’s functioning, including the importance of 
making progress on enha ncing transparency and supporting the function of dispute settlement 
system.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 55 - 
 
  4.451.   Indonesia's relations with China are governed by a commitment and a cooperative effort that 
contribute to economic improvement, as proven by China's commitment to strengthen coope ration 
in several key areas, including on the Covid -19 handling. In this regard, Indonesia anticipates that 
this cooperation will optimize trade and investment potential, reduce barriers, and allow for stronger 
economic growth between the two countries.  
4.452.   To conclude our remarks, we would like to once again commend China for its achievements 
and the way forward, as well as to express our appreciation to H.E. Li Chenggang, the Permanent 
Representative of China and the delegation of China. We look forward to co ntinuing to deepen our 
bilateral economic and trade relations. Finally, we wish Chin a a successful outcome of this e ighth 
Trade Policy Review.  
THE REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.453.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of China for its 8th Trade Policy 
Review. I extend my appreciation to Minister Wang Wentao for his comprehensive presentation. I 
would also like to take this opportunity to commend Ambassador Li Chenggang for all that he is 
doing in Geneva. I also thank Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of So uth Africa for her insightful 
comments as discussant and the Secretariat for its detailed report.  
4.454.   My delegation appreciates China’s continued efforts to liberalize its economy, notably in the 
services sector, further open up to foreign investments and impl ement tariff r eductions. I take 
particular note of China’s gradual removal of rest rictions on foreign investment.  The negative list on 
services trade was adopted for the first time through the “ Hainan Free Trade Port’s special measures  
on Cross -border serv ices trade”  that was implemented in August this year. We hope that the same 
level of services liberalization will soon be expanded nation wide.  
4.455.   With the 30th anniversary of our diplomatic ties fast approaching, Korea and China continue 
to engage in robust economic i nteractions.  China is Korea’s largest export destination and biggest 
import source, accounting for 24.6% of Korea’s global trade in 2020. From the early stage of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, our two countries have been working together to ensure the co ntinuation of 
essential bus iness activities by adopting a “fast track2 system. More and more companies are also 
utilizing the Kor ea-China Free Trade Agreement.  
4.456.   Against this positive backdrop, I wish to mention a few specific areas of interest and concerns 
for Korea.  
4.457.   China’s legal framework for intellectual property rights has been improving. This is 
encouraging but we see that abusive practices by private commercial actors that disrupt market 
order, such as bad -faith trademark registration and trademark ab use, s till persist.  These practices, 
if allowed to continue, run the risk of hampering seriously a fair business environment and the 
protection of consumers. Korea calls on China to strengthen the supervision and enforcement efforts 
over actions that infri nge upon intellectual property rights.  
4.458.   Regarding technical standards, excessive information labelling is often required that goes 
beyond international standards. The recent modification of the standards on battery labels for 
electronic devices is a case in  point. There are also some concerns over the possibility of having 
trade secrets exposed as regards the proposed Regulations on Management of  Commercial Password 
under the “Cryptography Law”,  on which public comm ents are now being solicited. We would like to 
encourage China to formulate and operate the relevant legal framework in a manner consistent with 
the WTO TBT Agreement so that it does not impose unnecessary burdens on businesses.  
4.459.   Even in the midst of the p andemic, Korea and China have continued to advance follow -up 
negotiations of their FTA, focusing on upgrading rules on services and investment and deepening 
the level of liberalization by shif ting to a negative  list system.  It is our hope that the agreemen t will 
be concluded soon and provide important momentum to liberalize further China’s services and 
investment sector.  
4.460.   In 2019, China circulated its 6th revised market access offer in the context of its bid to join 
the GPA. Korea hopes to see China’s GPA ac cession process completed as soon as possible through 
close cooperation with Members.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 56 - 
 
  4.461.   This year marks the 20th anniversary of China’s accession to the WTO, and I highly 
appreciate China’s contributions to t he multilateral trading system.  As we seek to ove rcome the 
COVID -19 pandemic and combat climate change, it is crucial for all Members of the WTO to make 
concerted efforts to establish a level playing field and ensure sustainable development.  In this 
regard, Korea hopes that as a beneficiary of the multil ateral trading system under the WTO, China 
will show initiative and contribute to the further development of the MTS through market -friendly 
actions that are supportive of trade.  
INDIA  
4.462.   My delegation is pleased to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review (TPR) of China. On 
behalf of India, I would like to welcome the delegation of China led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, 
Minister of Commerce to the TPR meeting and thank him for his comprehensive opening statement. 
I also take this opportunity to welcome the Chin ese delegation in Geneva led by its  Ambassador and  
Permanent Representative , H.E. Mr. Li Cheng gang. We also thank Ambassador and  Permanent 
Represe ntative H.E. Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa, for her  insightful observations as a 
discussant, and th e Secretariat and the Government of China for the reports prepared for the Review.  
4.463.   China with its large share in international trade and world economy is a key driver of global 
trade and growth. Therefore, it’s role in world trade and policies, both in th e bilateral context as well 
as with in the multilateral trading system assumes great importance. We welcome the participation 
of China in this transparency exercise at the WTO, which provides the Members an opportunity to 
provide their frank assessment of the trade policies of the reviewed Member. We thank the Chinese 
delegation for the replies provided to the questions we have raised in this TPR. While these will be 
reviewed, let me underscore some specific issues and concerns that affect our trade relatio ns with 
China.  
4.464.   First, the bilateral trade is skewed in favour of China, w ith India’s trade deficit at 
USD 45.91  billion in 2020, is large and growing. This is the single biggest trade deficit India has with 
any country and is difficult for any country to sustain such a large trade deficit over a prolonged 
period of time. Therefore, serious efforts need to be made to  remedy the situation and we have 
sought engagement of Chinese authorities in this regard.  
4.465.   Second, exports from India, particularly the agriculture products have long faced significant 
challenges and market entry barriers due to the stringent and often op aque regulatory requirements. 
China is yet to fulfil its commitment made in 2001 to provide market access to 17  agricultural 
products (fruits and  vegetables) from India. Unfortunately, even the three products that were 
granted access so far still continue to face one or the other barrier from time to time. For instance, 
exporters of Indian mangoes, who were granted access have been unable to export during the past 
two years. More recently in an arbitrary manner China banned the import of Indian cumin seeds 
through an SPS measure. Further, the GACC Decree No. 248 & 249, notified to the WTO TBT & the 
SPS Committees in November 2020 require registration with the GACC of all food manufacturers, 
processors and storage facilities which handle food exported to Chin a. Another recent decree No.353 
requires the list of exporting establishments to be shared by October 31, 2021. These above decrees 
have significantly expanded the scope of products covered and also put onerous requirements on 
exporters and the Indian Expo rt Inspection Agencies. We request the Chinese authorities to review 
them or at least provide sufficient time for compliance.  
4.466.   Third, we have been concerned over the wide -scale use of non -tariff barriers (NTBs) by the 
Chinese authorities on Indian agricult ural and food products over the years. We are extremely 
disappointed to note that during the current pandemic these NTB’s have increased at an alarming 
rate, with the unscientific use of COVID -19 contamination as a pretext to block many of our exports 
particularly the sea food exports. These measures run contrary to the clear guidelines issued by the 
FAO that food and food packaging are highly unlikely to be the transmitter of COVID -19. Despite 
this, the Chinese authorities have chosen to follow this unscie ntific practice, without even providing 
the technical details of the tests carried out and also destroying several consignments of the exports, 
causing significant financial losses to our exporters. What is even more astounding is that the 
Chinese authorit ies are looking for traces of COVID -19 contamination in non -food exports from India, 
such as cotton yarn, leather items and engineering goods, which clearly indicates the clear intent on 
part of Chinese authorities to use the pretext of COVID -19 contaminat ion as NTB to deny exports 
from India. We request the Chinese authorities to immediately refrain from such actions and allow 
free flow of trade for the mutual benefit of our people. We are also concerned over the disruptions WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 57 - 
 
  caused to our bilateral trade d ue to the arbitrary restrictions on the civilian and air cargo operations 
since onset of the COVID -19 pandemic and request the Chinese authorities for restoration of these 
services, in a consistent and transparent manner, in conformity with the bilateral A ir Services 
Agreement.  
4.467.   Fourth, India is one of the largest manufacturers of generic medicines and exports to more 
than 120 countries around the globe. However, in spite of the expansion of the Chinese public health 
programme, exports of pharmaceuticals fro m India to China have remained modest. This is in large 
measure due to the cumbersome, non -transparent and onerous process and regulatory requirements 
in China, which has not allowed the Indian pharma companies to obtain market approvals for various 
generi c formulations. The registration of formulations which normally takes only a few months in 
market economies, takes almost 2 -3 years in China. The processes are cumbersome and often 
provide undue advantage to local manufacturers.  
4.468.   Fifth, in the services sec tor, Indian companies provide IT and IT -enabled services to a large 
number of companies including a majority of the Fortune 500. This has brought about a 
transformational change in the competitiveness of manufacturing and banking entities that have 
accesse d these services. However, despite the significant potential of the Indian IT sector to provide 
state of the art custom designed solutions to the Chinese companies, the partnership remains 
hampered due to a variety of reasons. Other challenges in the servi ces sector that confront the 
Indian companies include complex requirements for participating in contracts of the Chinese SOE’s 
and issues related to qualification requirements, licensing and taxation. Similarly, Indian 
professionals also face visa restrict ions, which also acts as a barrier to services trade.  
4.469.   Seventh, our businesses continue to face several challenges such as lack of enforcement and 
maintaining the sanctity of business contracts and the use of the new Chinese Export Control Law, 
enacted duri ng the Review period, to deny export licenses without proper justification and as a 
possible economic coercive measure.  
4.470.   Eighth, the Government of China, under both its government procurement regime and its 
tendering & bidding regime, continues to implement  policies that favour products, services and 
technology produced by Chinese -owned or Chinese -controlled companies through explicit and 
implicit requirements that hamper foreign companies from fairly competing in China. The guidelines 
for foreign products t o qualify for government procurements and tenders remain vague, which often 
works to the disadvantage of foreign companies.  
4.471.   We request and encourage the Chinese authorities to look into the above issues, with a view 
to resolving them early.  
4.472.   Chair, India an d China have been working closely in various fora such as the BRICS, SCO, 
G-20 and in a variety of other institutions. We appreciate China’s support to the multilateral trading 
system, from which it has immensely benefited. In the WTO, we have overlapping interests and 
common concerns. We look forward to working constructively with our Chinese colleagues to 
strengthen the rules -based multilateral trading system. In the spirit of partnership, we will also 
remain closely engaged with the authorities in China.  We wish the delegation of China a productive 
and successful TPR.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
4.473.   First of all, we would like to welcome Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, and his 
delegation.  
4.474.   We also congratulate the discussant, HE Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi Peter, Ambassador of South 
Africa, and the Secretariat for the preparation of the report.  
4.475.   The Dominican Republic and the Republic of China maintain excellent relations. When 
diplomatic relations were opened between our two countries, some 18 agreements or memoran dums 
of understanding were signed.  
4.476.   The following Dominican products are exported to the Chinese market: Ferro nickel; medical, 
surgical or veterinary instruments; footwear; zinc ores and concentrates; paper or cardboard; rum; WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 58 - 
 
  tobacco; coffee; bananas; coco a; coconut; and meat and other agricultural products. Trade flows 
between the two countries have continued to a high degree. There is no trade agreement in the 
bilateral trade relationship. Both countries conduct their trade under the most favoured nation 
principle, owing to their membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO).  
4.477.   Trade for the period January 2015 to July 2021 amounted to USD 18,714 million, 95% being 
imports of goods from China and the remaining 5% Dominican exports. Chinese imports have sh own 
steady growth, ranking second for total Dominican imports individually. The Dominican Republic is 
China's largest trading partner in the Caribbean. The main imported products are mobile telephones, 
motorcycles, televisions, instruments and apparatus fo r measuring or controlling water flow or level, 
taps, cocks and valves and tube fittings, articles of iron or steel, quilted textile products in the piece, 
dry type power transformers.  
4.478.   During 2001 –2017, bilateral trade increased 47 fold, mainly due to the growth of imports 
from China.  
4.479.   Dominican exports to China went from an average of USD 10 million in the five year period 
2001–2005 to an average of USD 146 million during the five year period 2013 –2017. However, 
during the same period, imports from China we nt from USD 202 million to an average of USD 2.326 
million during the five year period 2013 –2017.  
4.480.   We commend China on adopting a number of trade facilitation measures for import 
registration, documentation and inspection requirements, as well as in respons e to the COVID 19 
pandemic. The national single window for international trade has been expanded and the overall 
time for customs clearance of imports throughout the country has been reduced.  
4.481.   It should be noted that, with regard to the export regime, in th e wake of the COVID 19 
pandemic, the Chinese authorities adopted measures to further simplify customs procedures, 
including inspections and quarantine, and to reduce port charges for exporters of medical devices.  
4.482.   We welcome and appreciate that China consid ers COVID 19 vaccines as a global public good. 
Chinese vaccines have been available globally and have supported the COVAX Facility. As of May 
2021, the Dominican Republic has received four million doses of the Chinese vaccine and has 
therefore been able to  vaccinate a high percentage of its population.  
4.483.   Finally, we would like to thank China for its timely replies to the questions raised by the 
Dominican Republic on various points contained in the report.  
TURKEY  
4.484.   Turkey joins other M embers in welcoming the del egation of China headed by Minister of 
Commerce, H.E. Wang Wentao.  
4.485.   We would like to thank the Secretariat and the Government of China for their detailed 
reports. We also thank Ambassador Li Chenggang and his team , as well as discussant Ambassador 
Xolelwa M lumbi -Peter of South Africa for her enlightening comments.  
4.486.   As stated in the reports, China has continued to be a major actor in global economy and 
trade. Although its growth slowed down due to the pandemic, it is expected to rise again in 2021.  
4.487.   Since its previous TPR, price stability has remained as the main goal of its monetary policy.  
4.488.   The long -term structural changes in China’s economy continued during the review period. 
And now the services sector makes up around 55% of GDP of the country.  
4.489.   China continued to aim at increasing international trade and investments according to its 
Five-Year Plans.  
4.490.   Rapid economic development and increasing exports over the last decades lifted hundreds 
of millions of people out of poverty. Its approach to the gl obalization helped China to expand its 
middle class.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 59 - 
 
  4.491.   Furthermore, efforts undertaken by the country to address climate change issues are a good 
start for global net zero goals.  
4.492.   China is an active participant in the Joint Statement Initiatives on e -commer ce; investment 
facilitation; MSMEs; and domestic regulation in services.  
4.493.   China has a very critical role to play in our efforts to restore the strong multilateral trading 
system which existed during the previous decades.  
4.494.   Turkey pursues a multi -dimensional foreign policy. We would like to develop and further 
strengthen good relations with all countries in Asia, including China.   
4.495.   This year we marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations 
with China. Our economic relations devel oped gradually during this period.  
4.496.   As one of the main actors in its region, China also has an important place in our “Asia Anew” 
initiative.  
4.497.   However, we believe that our trade and economic relations can be further developed.  
4.498.   Although China ranks second in Turkey’s foreign trade, the trade balance is heavily in China’s 
favour. We want to narrow bilateral trade deficit and establish balanced and sustainable trade 
relations with China.  
4.499.   The SWAP Agreement signed between our Central Banks was renewed this year and 
increased currency SWAP facility to USD 6 billion.  
4.500.   We hope that this agreement will assist to further increase our bilateral trade.  
4.501.   In concluding, we thank the Chinese delegation in advance for their replies to our questions 
on specific aspects of its trade policy.  
4.502.   We wish China a very successful Trade Policy R eview.  
LAO PDR 
4.503.   At the outset, I would like to extend my warmest welcome to China’s delegation led by 
H.E Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce of China to this 8th Trade Policy Review, today.  
4.504.   I would also like to thank China’s government for its comprehensive briefing. My sincere 
appreciation goes to the secretariat’s informative report and to H.E Ambassador Xol elwa 
Mlumbi -Peter for his role as a discussant.  
4.505.   The Lao PDR aligns itself with the ASEAN statement delivered earlier by Viet Nam.  
4.506.   The Lao PDR would like to commend China for the success in steering their economy towards 
continued growth and ensuring macro economic stability amid unprecedented challenges posed by 
COVID -19 pandemic. The Lao PDR would also like to congratulate China for its commitment in 
upholding multilateral trading system both regionally and globally showcased in recently signed 
RCEP, its p roactive role in WTO related initiatives and its application to become a party to CPTPP.  
4.507.   This year, Lao PDR and China mark the 60th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties where 
the two countries and two peoples are committed to implement our comprehe nsive strategic 
cooperative partnership to build the Laos -China community with a shared future. These include trade 
and investment projects/programs to transform the land -locked to a land -linked country such as 
Laos-China expressway, Laos -China railway und er the Belt and Road Initiative and an ASEAN SKRL, 
the Boten Special Economic Zone and Vientiane -Saysettha Development zone and so on. These 
initiatives have contributed not only to the socio -economic development of our two countries, but 
they have served as building blocks to bridge the development gap within ASEAN and to have a 
seamlessly connected ASEAN.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 60 - 
 
  4.508.   During this review period, Lao PDR and China have enjoyed a remarkable growth of bilateral 
trade and investment. China is the Lao PDR’s 2nd largest trad ing partner with the total two -way 
trade volume of USD 2.6 billion in 2020 which increased by 8.1 % compared with USD 1.9 billion in 
2016.  
4.509.   On Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), China is the Lao PDR’s biggest investor, as of July 2021, 
about 815 projects have been undertaken amounted to USD 16 billion. These invested 
projects/program mes cover various sectors such as agriculture, industries, manufacturing, 
hydropower, infrastructures and so -on. 
4.510.   On the way forward, the Lao PDR looks forward to closely working wit h China and our ASEAN 
member States as well as the Four other ASEAN Dialogue Partners to have the signed RCEP 
agreement fully and effective realized. Furthermore, the Lao PDR looks forward to cooperating with 
China in digital transformation, including to h elp MSMEs with digital platforms to improve their 
productivity and competitiveness as well as to harness ICT to facilitate the flow and movement of 
trade, investment , and people along the international cross -border checkpoints and East -West and 
North -South  Economic Corridors.   
4.511.   The Lao PDR commends China, especially Ambassador L i Cheng Gang and his team, for the 
strong supporter of the multilateral trading system and playing a proactive role in WTO’s negotiations 
and reform processes.  
4.512.   Taking this opportuni ty, I would like to thank China for its invaluable capacity building and 
technical assistance extended to Laos in trade and investment related matters. Our heartfelt thanks 
also go for China’s timely and effective support extended to Laos during the COVID -19 pandemic, 
including sending expert teams, medical supplies and vaccines; “A friend in need, A friend indeed”.  
4.513.   To conclude, I wish China a great success in its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
PANAM A 
4.514.   I would like to extend my compliments to His Excellency Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce, His Excellency Wang Shouwen, Deputy Minister and Deputy Representative for 
International Trade, and His Excellency Li Chenggang, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, 
and the entire Chinese delegation for th eir outstanding preparation for this eighth Trade Policy 
Review of the People's Republic of China. I would also like to extend greetings to Ambassador Xolelwa 
Mlumbi Peter, the discussant for this Review, and thank the Secretariat for its reports.  
4.515.   Panama a ccords special attention to relations with China. The bilateral trade balance ranged 
between USD 1.107 million and USD 1.823 million, which shows a deficit for Panama. However, 
there is evidence that the trade gap between the two countries has been reducin g because Panama's 
exports in the last two years have been increasing compared to 2018.  
4.516.   China is currently one of the largest users of the Panama Canal and one of the most 
important economic and trading partners.  
4.517.   Panamanian exports are focused on products such as copper ores and concentrates, fish 
meal, beef, sawn wood and tanned hides and skins.  
4.518.   Our imports include products such as: parts for telephones, including mobile telephones; 
and apparatus for the reception, conversion and transmission or regenerati on of voice, image or 
other data.  
4.519.   During the review period, China has continued to push forward the expansion of international 
trade and investment, as outlined in the five year plans and various administrative measures. The 
Made in China 2025 and Internet  Plus programmes, both launched in 2015, are China's main 
initiatives to promote its manufacturing sector.  
4.520.   China adopted a new foreign investment law, aiming to provide a better business 
environment for foreign investors and ensuring that they participate in market competition on an 
equal footing. The legislation stipulates that investors are protected against expropriation, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 61 - 
 
  restrictions on cross border remittances, infringement of intellectual property rights (IPR), and 
forced technology transfer.  
4.521.   On other  issues, we recognize China's efforts to resolve climate change problems. China in 
turn is implementing measures for industrial restructuring, energy structure optimization, energy 
conservation and efficiency, and the establishment of a carbon trading mark et. 
4.522.   Panama attaches great importance to climate change issues, and is one of only three 
countries in the world that are classified as "carbon negative".  
4.523.   China is continuing to reduce its share of coal consumption, in line with the targets set for 
the devel opment of green and low carbon energy set out in the Thirteenth Five Year Energy Sector 
Development Plan. On the other hand, continued reliance on coal for energy production is a concern.  
4.524.   With regard to the export regime, in the wake of the COVID 19 pandem ic, the Chinese 
authorities took steps to further simplify customs procedures, including inspections and quarantine, 
and to reduce port charges for exporters of medical devices.  
4.525.   Exports fell in the first half of 2020 due to the COVID 19 pandemic, but grew strongly 
afterwards due to China being the first manufacturing power to resume operations after the first 
wave of global shutdowns, and its role as leading supplier of protective health equipment and 
electronics related to working from home.  
4.526.   As is the  case for other economies, the COVID 19 pandemic has had a big impact on the air 
transport sector, with international and domestic passenger flights dropping dramatically from 
February 2020; only the domestic passenger flight segment has recovered. China h as taken various 
measures to support the air and maritime sectors in the wake of the COVID 19 outbreak.  
4.527.   We note the participation of the Chinese delegation in the various WTO committees and in 
the joint statement initiatives on investment facilitation for development, micro, small and medium 
sized enterprises and domestic regulation in services.  
4.528.   On transparency issues, China submitted notifications to the WTO during the review period. 
Nevertheless, some notifications, including those on state trading enterp rises and domestic support, 
remain outstanding.  
4.529.   In other issues of high interest, China is a major contributor to the work programme on 
electronic commerce. In the services sector, significant developments include telecommunications, 
cybersecurity, the eli mination of certain restrictions on foreign investment participation in the 
reinsurance sector, and future elimination of similar restrictions in the financial sector.  
4.530.   We share several priorities in the WTO. For example, as Group of Article XII Members, we  
are working for greater parity between the commitments undertaken by the Members that acceded 
to the WTO and those of its original Members. China plays an important role in the negotiations on 
fisheries subsidies, an issue that is also of great importance  to Panama.  
4.531.   Panama takes this opportunity to acknowledge China's commitment to the multilateral 
trading system, as reiterated today by Minister Wang, its initiatives and the leadership shown at 
recent Ministerial Conferences, and the significant activity o f its delegation within the WTO. In 
particular, we would like to acknowledge China's commitment to the Annual WTO Accessions Round 
Table, an issue of great importance to Panama.  
4.532.   We welcome the excellent ties between both countries, promoting a political, d iplomatic, 
trade, cultural, cooperative and educational relationship, framed in an atmosphere of respect, 
cordiality and spirit of reciprocal collaboration.  
4.533.   Panama wishes China a successful Trade Policy Review, and looks forward to a strengthened 
bilateral  trade relationship in the future.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 62 - 
 
  CAMB ODIA  
4.534.   Let me join others to express our warm welcome to the delegation of China virtually led by 
His Excellency Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, and convey our appreciation to China for 
putting in hard works in con ducting this Trade Policy Review (TPR).   
4.535.   Our special thanks also go the d iscussant, Her Excellency Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter 
of South Africa, for her insightful assessment and constructive remarks. We highly appreciate the 
reports prepared by the TP R Division and Chin a which are available for this R eview.  
4.536.   At the outset, Cambodia associates itse lf with the statement of ASEAN delivered by 
Brunei  Darussalam .   
4.537.   At the same time, we acknowledge the important and active role of China in the global 
trading environment and multilateral trading system.   
4.538.   In addition, we would also like to congratulate China for maintaining its remarkable economic 
growth at annual aver age of around 7% from 2016 -2019. Despite the challenges brought by 
COVID -19 pandemic, the Chinese economy is still positive with a growth rate of 2.3% in 2020.  
4.539.   Cambodia and China enjoy warm and friendly relations since at least the 13th century. With 
official diplomatic relations established on July 19, 1958, Cambodia and China have built an even 
stronger bilateral relations and these relations has been elevated to a “Comprehensive Strategic 
Partnership” in 2010 under the principles of trust and mutual ben efits. We have been carrying out 
many fruitful cooperation in various areas, including economy, trade, investment and culture, etc. 
We remain each other’s trusted friend and loyal partner, who value equality, sincerity and win -win 
cooperation.  
4.540.   In terms of  economic relations, from 1994 to 2019, China is Cambodia’s largest contributor 
to FDI inflow. In 201 9, Chinese investment is worth USD 3.7 billion, accounting to about 39.5% of 
total FDI inflow. Bi lateral trade in 2020 is worth USD 8.1 billion, representi ng an increase of 8.11% 
in export by Cambodia from 2019. To further strengthen this trade relations, Cambodia and China 
also pledged t o advance bilateral trade to USD  10 billion by 2023. So far, the current agricultural 
products Cambodia export directly to  China are rice, cassava, cashew nut, banana and fresh 
mangoes. With Cambodia’s first ever bilateral FTA, the Cambodia -China FTA expected to come into 
force in January 2022, we hope to reach our bilateral trade targets and to utilize the CCFTA for 
mutual b enefits of our two peoples.  
4.541.   Cambodia is also one of main recipients of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which 
Cambodia attaches great importance to due to its significant contribution to development and 
economic growth, especially poverty alleviatio n. Cambodia will also look to utilize the BRI to further 
improve Cambodia’s infrastructure and strengthen our competitiveness. This is evidenced in the 
building of the first express way linking capital city of Phnom Penh to the seaport town of 
Sihanoukvill e, the construction of the new airports in Phnom Penh and the tourism town of Siem 
Reap and many other projects.    
4.542.   Cambodia’s COVID -19 vaccination program has been a major success and we would like to 
thank China for their steadfast support to the Royal G overnment of Cambodia in our fight against 
COVID -19. As of last week, vaccination rates stand at 99.24% of the total targeted population of 10 
million adults and 89.90% of the total targeted 2 million of adolescent aged 12 to 17. We have also 
started provi ding booster 3rd dose to the population as well as vaccination program for children 
aged 6 to 11 years old. We owe in no small part to the generous donation and assistance from China 
on this matter. To date, Cambodia have received 32.8 million doses of COV ID-19 vaccines from 
China, 1 million doses from the US, 1 million from Japan and around 2 million through the COVAX 
initiative.  
4.543.   We thank and appreciate the delegation of China in Geneva led by His Excellency Ambassador 
Li Chenggang, for their friendship a nd good cooperation. We commend China for putting its efforts 
and active participation in supporting rule -based multilateral trading system, support most of LDC’s 
issues, and others. We would like to also thank China for her continued support for South -South WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 63 - 
 
  Dialogue and the LDC at the WTO through various programs including the China Roundtable which 
is expected to take  place back-to-back with MC12.  
4.544.   We would like to encourage China to provide other technical assistance to LDCs to increase 
our productive capacity, industrial development,  and economic transformation to better take 
advantage of the trade preferences provided under the WTO and other trade  preferential 
arrangements to better compete and integrate into the world trading system especially during and  
after this COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.545.   Finally, we commit to working closely with China and all Members in bilateral and multilateral 
platforms to streng then our good cooperation for ec onomic growth and development.  
4.546.   To this end, we wish China a successful conclusion o f its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
MAURITIUS  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP  
4.547.   We welcome the Chinese delegation led by His Excellency Mr . Wang We ntao, Minister of 
Commerce of the People’s Republic of China for attending the 8th Trade Policy Review of the country. 
We also congratulate both the Government of China and the WTO Secretariat for their efforts to 
draft the TPR reports despite the challeng es posed by the pandemic.  
4.548.   We are also thankful to the discussant, Her Excellency Ambassador Xolelwa Mulumbi -Peter 
of South Africa , for her incisive remarks on the TPR report.  
4.549.   China remains a very important development partner for the African Continent and this 
Partnership can best be sy mbolized by the Forum on China -Africa Cooperation which continues to 
yield a number of beneficial projects. We re iterate  our support for this continued collaboration.  
4.550.   We would like to commend China for its strong economic per formance and indeed a positive 
growth rate despite the pandemic. This reflects the strict measures adopted by the Chinese 
authorities which allowed them to effectively control the spread of the epid emic even in the early 
stages. We acknowledge China’ s sign ificant inputs into global value chains which helped mitigate 
some of the pandemic related scarcities and trade distortions that occurred. We are also thankful to 
China for its gesture in sharing vaccines  and its contribution to COVAX.   It would be good to  hear 
what further contributions China can make i n the global fight against the p andemic.  
4.551.   With regard to China’s trade and investment po licies, we welcome the liberaliz ation direction 
taken by the country, including the adoption of its new foreign investme nt law; the accelerated 
implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and its improved innovation -led approach 
backed by reforms to its  Intellectual Property regime. Annual FDI inflows into China continued to 
grow between 2016 and 2019 although at a m uch slower pace than in previous periods and we 
would have liked China to share with us what measures it may have taken to improve the foreign 
investment environment since then.  
4.552.   We note that China took various trade -facilitating measures with respect to im port 
registration, documentation and inspection requirements and that its national single window for 
international trade was extended. Several of our countries nonetheless still faced some delays for 
customs clearance during the pandemic resulting no doubt  from the surge of orders of medical 
supplies that may have been received at the time of the Pandemic and reinforced quality control. It 
would be good to know whether China is considering any fresh measures for streamlining customs 
procedures as part of it s preparedness process for any similar situation recurring in future.  
4.553.   Prior to the pandemic, Africa and China noted important reciprocal increases in trade flows. 
However, African exports were sign ificantly impaired in 2019/20. In the meanwhile, many Afric an 
countries established special tr ading arrangements with China. Now that a new normal has been 
mostly established, Africa and China must together think  of how to re -establish the pre -pandemic 
trade volumes and growth rates including through more flexible rules for exports originating from 
Africa. We also look forward to increased cooperation between the General Administration of 
Customs of China and the African countries with a view to further facilitating the movement of goods 
and services.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 64 - 
 
  4.554.   China  is a technological giant and it has successfully implemented a number of innovative 
technologies for the fourth industrial revolution such as 5G. On the other hand, the pandemic brought 
to the fore the digital divide between Af rica and the rest of the wor ld. If not addressed, Africa will 
be left behind and the development gap will w iden at an unprecedented rate. We therefore encourage 
China to assist Afri can countries in their digitaliz ation endeavours by promoting sustainable 
investments and technology tr ansfer to African countries.  
4.555.   Indeed, sustainability has to be treated as a key factor going forward bearing in mind the 
dire report released by the IPCC.  In this context, we were glad to note China’s initiatives to reform 
its manufacturing and energy secto rs to bec ome greener. We would  like to learn more about China’ s 
carbon emission trading market system.  
4.556.   China has always been an active player in the multilateral trading system on all fronts, 
including in the WTO discussions for the elimination of fisherie s subsidies.  We think China could play 
an important role here by taking the lead for a green fisheries policy and we note gladly from the 
Secretariat report “that the Chinese authorities indicate that the Government will shortly issue a new 
policy to termi nate fuel and boat construction subsidies with the last of these pay -outs being made 
at end 2020”. We call on all M embers to contribute to the prohibition of harmful subsidies and for 
the restoration of fish stocks globally.  
4.557.   In conclusion, we would like to  commend and encourage China’s continued reforms aiming 
to improve its business environment, especially to the  benefit of foreign countries. We look forward 
to Africa and China working together to reinvigorate their trade flows and to create new and 
sustai nable value chains.  
4.558.   We wish China a very successful Trade Policy R eview.  
KINGDOM  OF BAHRAIN  
4.559.   The Kingdom of Bahrain is delighted to participate in the  8th Trade Policy Review of Chi na, 
and would like to warmly welcome H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Comme rce, H.E. Mr. Wang 
Shouwen, Vice Minister and Deputy China International T rade Repre sentative, and H.E. Mr. Li 
Chenggang Ambassador and Permanent Representative of China to the WTO, and wish them and 
their delegation a very successful R eview.  
4.560.   We would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed 
report.  
4.561.   The People’s Republic of China has always been an important partner of the Kingdom of 
Bahrain, sharing a strong economic relationship.  
4.562.   Despite the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic on global trade, the value of our total non -oil 
bilateral trade with China weathered the challenges, amounting to approximately  USD 1.9 billion in 
2020.  
4.563.   China is also a major destination for Bahraini chemicals and aluminum, making up a large 
share of the USD 18.5 million exports to China last year.  
4.564.   In light of the report’s finding of China’s exports attaining a peak of nearly USD 2.6 trillion 
in 2020, we foresee this strong economic relationship growing even further.  
4.565.   We are therefor e encouraged by the findings of the report, that during the review period, 
China continued to aim at expanding international trade and investments, as outlined in Five -Year 
Plans and various Administrative Measures.  
4.566.   We are also pleased to note from the rep ort that China’s economy has been a major driver 
of global growth and that remarkable progress on poverty alleviation has been achieved over the 
past decades, resulting from high GDP growth rates and market -oriented reforms.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 65 - 
 
  4.567.   In closing, we would like to thank the discussant for their remarks and active discussion and 
the WTO Secretariat for their tireless efforts in preparing the detailed report and wish Chin a once 
again a very successful R eview.  
JAMAICA  
4.568.   Jamaica joins other WT O Members in welcoming the delegation of the People’s R epublic of 
China, at this, its e ighth Trade Policy Review. We thank His Excellency Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce and his team for their comprehensive report. Jamaica also registers its appreciation  to 
our discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa , for her excellent steering of the 
discussion, as well as to you, Chair, and the Secretariat for the respective contributions to this 
exercise.  
4.569.   Jamaica and China share excellent relations spanning 49 years and built on a long history of 
camaraderie and cooperation. Jamaica has embraced the Chinese presence and culture. Both our 
countries have engaged on several issues of mutual interest and have ongoing cooperation in many 
fields including investment, education, health, sport, infrastructure development, and a variety of 
areas of capacity building. Under the leadership of Ambassador Li Chenggang, Jamaica has found 
pleasure collaborating with China at the WTO on a variety of issues. We, there fore, look forward to 
continued collaboration at the bilateral and multilateral levels to advance and promote issues of 
mutual interests to developing countries.   
4.570.   China continues to make a major contribution to the global economy, global trade, climate 
change goals and international development. During the period under review, China continued to 
implement its long -term strategy to diversify the economy away from agriculture and industry. The 
report points to success in this regard, notwithstanding the chal lenges faced in the process, which 
are not new to developing countries. Several economic indicators attest to the positive health of the 
economy, which has been buoyed by a strong services sector. These include: the increase in GDP 
per capita to US D 11,710  in 2020; low inflation rate ranging from -0.5% to 3.8%; increases in 
merchandise exports; relatively stable foreign exchange reserves, and a widening surplus to 
USD 273.9 billion in 2020. Additionally, the economy is expected to grow by 6.0% in 2021. Alth ough 
all sectors were adversely hit by the COVID -19 pandemic, we commend the action undertaken by 
the Chinese Government to stabiliz e the economy; this action resulted in the country’s quick rebound 
mid-2020, and facilitated its continued participation in international trade, particularly through the 
supply of much needed protective health equipment. We note also that China continues to share 
information and its experience in preventing and containing the spread of the coronavirus.  
4.571.   Jamaica commends China’s  efforts to expand international trade and investments through 
the elaboration and pursuit of action as outlined in its Five -Year Plans and Administrative Measures. 
Measures taken to improve the business environment and promote a level play field for forei gn 
investment through the adoption of a new Foreign Investment Law, strengthening intellectual 
property rights protection, as well as enhance customs clearance/trade facilitation demonstrate 
China’s commitment to an open investment and trade regime.  
4.572.   We ar e also pleased to learn of the attention being given to addressing the biggest existential 
threat to humanity as we know it, climate change. For developing countries, the adverse effects of 
climate change have serious implications for our way of life. We f urther note the attention being 
given to ensuring ecological and environmental protection. With this in mind, we applaud the 
Government’s efforts at transforming its industrial processes, including through digitali zation, and 
the pursuit of energy conserva tion and efficiency. Special note is taken of the country’s Three -year’ 
Action Plan for Blue Skies, and other initiatives such as the Ozone (O3) Pollution Prevention and 
Control in Summer. These efforts augur well for the regional and multilateral trading system and 
should be encouraged.  
4.573.   We appreciate China’s steadfast commitment to upholding the multilateral trading system, 
through its active participation in the work of the WTO and for its solidarity with fellow developing 
countries. We note that China ha s been actively involved in the discussions on WTO reform; 
negotiations on fisheries subsidies; agriculture; special and differential treatment and has been 
contributing to efforts aimed at addressing current challenges faced by the dispute settlement 
mech anism, including the Appellate Body. Its thrust to deepen global economic integration beyond WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 66 - 
 
  the WTO through, inter alia, increased regional trade and the conclusion approximately 19 regional 
trade agreements, is worth noting.  
4.574.   We value the support and con tinued importance that China attributes to the integration of 
developing Members into the multilateral trading system. Jamaica would like to acknowledge China’s 
ongoing participation in the WTO’s “Aid for Trade” initiative, the assistance rendered through its 
LDCs and Accessions Programme, as well as its contribution to the South -South Cooperation 
Assistance Fund. These actions are a testament of China’s commitment to ensuring that the 
multilateral system benefits the whole membership and should be supporte d.  
4.575.   In conclusion, Jamaica welcomes all actions taken by China to improve/enhance international 
trade. We look forward to a constructive exchange of views on all aspects of China’s trade policy and 
wish the delegation of the People’s Republic of China the utmost success during this Trade Policy 
Review.  
ZIMBABWE  
4.576.   A warm welcome to His Excellency, Minister Wang Wentao and his delegation  including, of 
course, our Colleague Ambassador Li Chenggang.   
4.577.   Our thanks for the Report and the effort made, bot h by China a nd the Secretariat  in the 
preparation for this 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.578.   Our appreciation to the Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body, Her Excellency the 
Ambassador of Botswana; and our discussant, Her Excellency Ambassador of South Africa.  
4.579.   China continues  to be one of the main drivers of the global economy and a major player in 
global trade.  
4.580.   As we all look forward towards a post  COVID  world, we look to China, I believe, to play a 
very significant role in ter ms of global economic recovery.  Indeed, they are already doing so.  
4.581.   Whilst on the subject of COVID , allow me to express the grateful thanks of the Government 
and people of Zimbabwe for the generous, timely and indeed ongoing support extended by China 
and which has help ed us to manage and to mitigate , relatively successfully, the impact of the 
pandemic on life and livelihoods in Zimbabwe.  
4.582.   The r eport submitted by the Government of China is comprehensive and detailed in its 
coverage of China’s rapidly evolving trade and investment policies and p ractices.  
4.583.   China’s economy  is massive and highly complex.  Structur al reform and moderniz ation i s 
always extremely challenging - even more -so within the context of COVID  and the negative impact 
the pandemic has had and continues to have on economies and on g lobal trade, in all aspects and 
at all levels.  
4.584.   What emerges from the Report is the extent of the reform -effort made since the last review 
and the clear evidence which has emerged of the effectiveness of those reforms.  
4.585.   We note that both import and export flows continue to attain record highs with China 
maintaining its long -held position as the world’s second largest importer of goods.  
4.586.   We note the further streamlining of China’s import  policy, the accommodating approach t o 
trade facilitation more broadly and the efforts made to further expand market  access for inward  FDI 
in terms of significant revision of the so -called “negative  list”, the opening -up of more sectors to 
inward FDI  including t he financial services sector  and the greater levels of foreign shareholding now 
permissible across multiple economic sectors.  
4.587.   We note the improved performance in trade in services and, contrary to recent global trends, 
the impre ssive increase in inward FDI  with primary focus on the serv ice and h igh-tech industries 
sectors: a clear indication of strategic and logical future priorities within China’s evolving economic 
growth and development matrix.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 67 - 
 
  4.588.   We note deepening reform in fiscal and taxation regimes; and the further strengthening of 
legislation and regulatory measures to protect intellectual property rights in China.  
4.589.   We note also the impressive progress achieved with regard to the refor m of State -Owned 
Enterprises,  a sever e headache for any Government and, in this regard , the success of  China’s mixed  
ownership model.  
4.590.   China’s National Development and Reform Co mmission (NDRC) now subsumed within the 
overarching  State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR)  has, over many years, provided 
guidance and advice on the reform of Zim babwe’s 1 07 SOE’s, 43 of which,  including major power, 
financial and tele communication entities, are currently undergoing major reform of one kind or 
another. It is a co mplex and challenging process. The progress made by China is highly 
commendable.  
4.591.   Over the past f ew years, all of this, together with the promulgation of China’s Foreign 
Investment Law and a raft of other progressive administrative and regulatory reforms, have seen 
China move up more than 50 places on the World Bank’s Global Ease of Doing Business Ind ex. 
4.592.   Of course, critics will always find fault, will always  characteriz e your efforts as inadequate 
and will always demand deeper and faster reform.  
4.593.   The important thing is to continue down the path of reform, at a pace and to a depth which 
is manageable for  yourselves and which will not cause any major internal discomfort or turbulence.  
4.594.   Outward Chinese FDI, including in Zimbabwe, continues to see technology transfer, 
employment generation and significant contributions to the economies of host  countries by way of 
tax revenues and foreign currency receipts.  
4.595.   We look forward to further win -win cooperation projects as we move forward and as we 
emerge from the pandemic.  
4.596.   On the trade front, in 2020, total trade between Zimbabwe and China amounted to j ust 
under USD 500 million,  up by 2% over the previous year. Major traded products are machinery and 
equipment, m inerals, chemicals and tobacco.  Zimbabwe horticulture and floriculture products have 
now found a market in China and demand is growing.  Progress  is also being made to facilitate the 
exportation of Zimbabwe citrus fruits to China . We have no doubt that there is ample scope to 
increase these trade figures if the trade potential and market access opportunities between our two 
countries are fully tapp ed. 
4.597.   We value China’s always constructive and supportive role within Forums such  as the G20, 
BRICS and APEC, in proactively promoting global economic and trade cooperation, and the strong 
emphasis always placed on the furtheranc e of South -South cooperation  of bringing developing 
countries closer to meaningful integration and participation in the global trading economy.  
4.598.   The Belt and Road Initiative and, for Africa, the Forum for China -Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 
with their strong emphasis on building productiv e capacity and on connecting countries by prioriti zing 
the development of hard -infrastructure, both within co untries and across borders is hugely important 
for developing countries seeking to identify and develop internal and foreign markets for our 
produc ts and to facilitate more cost -effective movement of those products.  
4.599.   Let me conclude by welcoming China’s strong c ommitment to multilateralism,  including the 
multilateral trading system , with a reformed, strengthened and more effective WTO at its centre.  
4.600.   Zimbabwe looks forward to a further deepening of our bilateral engagement and strategic 
partnership with China; and we wish Honourable Minister Wang Wentao and his delegation a very 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.601.   Kazakhstan warmly welcomes the d istinguished delegation of China led by His Excellency 
Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce of China. We also recognize with appreciation the presence WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 68 - 
 
  of Vice Minister and Deputy China International Trade Representative, Wang Shouwen, and our 
friend, Amba ssador Li Chenggang and his team. We express our gratitude to the Government of 
China for its informative report and statement. We also thank Ambassador Xolelma Mlumbi -Peter 
for her insightful comments as the discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for its com prehensive report.  
4.602.   Kazakhstan enjoys strategic bilateral cooperation with China and attaches high importance 
to further deepening economic and trade relations. China is a key and third largest trading partner 
of my country. In 2020, the volume of our bilat eral merchandise trade increased by 4% despite all 
the disruptions caused by COVID -19 pandemic and constituted USD 15.4 billion. This growth in 
bilateral trade volume was possible thanks to the successful implementation of the Nurly Zhol and 
Belt and Road programmes and effective functioning of the Khorgos Free Economic Zone at the 
border between China and Kazakhstan. This project became unique and aims at boosting bilateral 
trade and allowed the use of the full transit potential of Kazakhstan for China's t rade with countries.  
4.603.   We also believe that China's initiative aimed at achieving shared growth through the 
collaboration of countries along the Belt and Road program has a significant potential for further 
enhancement of trade and economic cooperation withi n our region and beyond. China is also one of 
the five largest investors in Kazakhstan’s economy. Over the period from 2005 to 2020, China's total 
direct investment exceeded USD 19.2 billion. Within the framework of the industrial and investment 
cooperatio n programme between our countries, it is planned to build 50 enterprises with 
USD 24.5 billion and it is expected that most of these projects will be completed by 2023.  
4.604.   We also enjoy mutually beneficiary cooperation within the agreement on trade and econom ic 
cooperation between the Eurasian Economic Union and China that was signed in 2019. It is worth 
noting that China, with the objectives to fight the pandemic, has been actively sending medical 
assistance overseas, donating medical supplies and vaccines. I n this context, we express our highest 
gratitude to the Government of China for its support in delivering several shipments of Sinopharm 
vaccines to Kazakhstan which significantly contributed to the nationwide vaccination campaign in 
my country.  
4.605.   Kazakhstan  welcomes China’s work on trade facilitation measures, such as streamlining the 
customs procedures, inspections, optimization of pre -export control and certification services with a 
view to maintain trade flows of medical supplies and minimize the disrupti ons caused by the 
COVID -19 pandemic. We also note with appreciation that China has always been a supporter, active 
participant and major contributor to the accession processes to the World Trade Organization.  
4.606.   We recognize China's constructive engagement in  the work of the WTO. Particularly, we 
appreciate China's contribution into the discussions on fisheries subsidies, on agriculture, trade and 
health, WTO's response to the pandemic, and women's economic empowerment. We also welcome 
China's active participa tion in major Joint Statement Initiative negotiations on investment 
facilitation, domestic regulation in services, and e -commerce.  
4.607.   In conclusion, we would like to congratulate Ambassador Li Chenggang and his team for the 
hard work and efforts that went into preparing this TPR. We wish the delegation of China every 
success for their 8th Trade Policy Review.  
TAJIKISTAN  
4.608.   Tajikistan is pleased to participate in the eighth trade  policy review of China and would like 
to welcome entire delegation of China led by  H.E. Mr.  Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce and 
would also like to extend appreciation to the Chinese delegation, the Secretariat for the excellent 
exercise of the eighth R eview of the trade policy of China , and the discussant , H.E. Ms . Xolelwa 
Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her remarks.  
4.609.   The Republic of Tajikistan builds its relations with China taking into account its dynamically 
developing economy and its large financial resources, which create favourable  conditions for 
mutually beneficial cooperation.  
4.610.   China is a key trading  partner of T ajikistan. More than 300 enterprises with the capital of 
the People's Republic of China are registered in the Unified Register System of the Tax Committee 
of Tajikistan. Investments from the People's Republic of China are aimed at improving the WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 69 - 
 
  reconstruct ion of international roads, access to electricity, increasing industrial capacity, economic 
development and sustainability. The foreign trade turnover bet ween Tajikistan and China for 
9 months of 2021 amounted to USD 640 million and increased by 186.9% com pared to the same 
period in 2020. Of the total turnover, exports to China amounted to USD 103.9 million and imports 
from China amounted to USD 536 million. The share of trade with China for 9 months of 2021 is 
14.1%. The Republic of Tajikistan commends Chi na’s support to combat the COVID -19 and the 
contribution to ensure the sustainable economic development and implementing important 
infras tructure projects and its interest  to continue the partnership and strategic relations between 
the two countries. The e xpansion of trade cooperation with Ch ina is in the interest of both S tates. 
In this regard , it is important to make use of available opportunities for the development of trade 
relations between Tajikistan and China.  
4.611.   This eighth Trade Policy Review of Chin a provides a great opportunity to improve our 
understanding of its trade and investment regimes.  
4.612.   Since China's previous TPR in 2018, the country's economy has been a major driver of global 
growth. Real GDP growth rates fell from 7.0% in 2016 -18 to 6.0% in  2019 and 2.3% in 2020. Growth 
is projected to reach 6.0% in 2021. China's GDP per capita was USD 11,710 in 2020 and services 
make up some 55% of GDP. My delegation acknowledges China’s continued pursuit of trade 
liberalization in a multilateral , as well a s bilateral context. China’s contribution to and constructive 
involvement in the WTO negotiations is also remarkable.  
4.613.   As active M ember of the WTO , China supports the work related to e -commerce within the 
WTO framework and participates in the JSIs on e -commerce, investment facilitation for 
development, micro, small, and medium -sized enterprises and domestic regulation in services.  
4.614.   We are confident that China will continue to undertake further trade policy and structural 
reforms to improve its overall effici ency and to maintain an open WTO consistent trade and 
investment regime to secure sustainable growth.  
4.615.   In conclusion I wish China a very productive and successful Trade Policy R eview.  
URUGUAY  
4.616.   Uruguay would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of China, led by the Minister 
of Commerce, Mr Wang Wentao, on the occasion of its eighth Trade Policy Review. We thank 
Ambassador Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi Peter for her presentation and the Secretariat for its comprehensive 
report.  
4.617.   In 2020, the sudden pandemic wreaked havoc on the global economy. Despite the impact of 
COVID 19 on output and employment, China's economy has been a driving force of global economic 
growth. We note that China has been continuously enhancing the liberalization and facilitatio n of 
trade and investment, and pursuing a new pattern of opening up on all fronts. We note that China 
has harnessed reform and innovation as the primary driving force in endeavours to meet the 
fundamental goals of satisfying people's growing aspirations fo r a better life, as reflected in rising 
per capita GDP. According to the Secretariat's report, poverty fell during the review period and China 
continued the long-term structural shift away from industry to services.  
4.618.   Furthermore, we note the strenuous effor ts made by China in the fight against the pandemic. 
We also recognize China's leadership in continuously strengthening South -South cooperation.  
4.619.   Uruguay recognizes China's commitment to the continuous improvement of trade facilitation. 
In this regard, we no te that China notified measures implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
(TFA) to the WTO ahead of schedule, including measures like "Exchange of Information", "Provision 
of Information" and "Establishment and Publication of Average Release Times". So  far, China has 
fully implemented the measures stipulated in the TFA, and, reportedly, the overall customs clearance 
time for imports nationwide was reduced. We also commend China for its continued support for 
cooperation among WTO members on MSMEs issues such as information exchange, sharing best 
practices and trade facilitation.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 70 - 
 
  4.620.   At the bilateral level, on 3 February 1988, Uruguay and China established diplomatic 
relations. Since then, bilateral relations have developed fruitfully and steadily. The two cou ntries 
have maintained high level contacts and economic and trade cooperation has steadily increased, 
with China currently being Uruguay's main trading partner. In this regard, the celebration of 30 
years of diplomatic relations between Uruguay and China i n 2018, which was an opportunity to raise 
the issues of highest priority for our countries, is of great importance. At that time, it was noted that 
in 30 years of diplomatic relations, trade had grown 40 times. It should be noted that Uruguay and 
China hav e signed a significant number of agreements, memorandums of understanding, protocols 
and minutes that reflect the intensity of the bilateral economic and trade relationship, and we 
advocate continuing expanding our relationship.  
4.621.   China and Uruguay agree on the great value attached to the WTO and its key role in the 
rules based multilateral trading system, as well as on the need to achieve meaningful outcomes at 
the Twelfth Ministerial Conference. Similarly, both countries share the need to ensure that the WT O 
remains relevant in the future and is able to rise to the occasion.  
4.622.   I also recognize China's commitment to the multilateral trading system, as reflected in the 
work of Ambassador Li Chenggang and his team in the work of the WTO.  
4.623.   In conclusion, we would l ike to reiterate our appreciation for this latest opportunity to discuss 
China's trade practices, and look forward to continuing to cooperate with China on all fronts: 
bilaterally, regionally and here at the WTO. Thank you and best wishes for a successful Review.  
HONDURAS  
4.624.   Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to the Minister of Commerce of the Republic 
of China, Mr Wang Wentao and his delegation.  
4.625.   We thank the Chair, the Secretariat and the discussant for their valuable reports and 
statements, and we  also thank China for its report and government statement.  
4.626.   With regard to the reports under review, we are pleased to note China's commitment to 
continuing to implement the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris 
Agreement to ad dress climate change, reiterating its efforts to peak its carbon dioxide emissions by 
2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.  
4.627.   We noted the approval of the establishment of China's first wholly foreign invested currency 
brokerage company, as well as the first foreign invested pension insurance company and the first 
foreign company offering digital payment services in China.  
4.628.   We welcome that the reports highlight that, in recent decades, China has made great strides 
in reducing poverty, which has meant that the number of people in China who have been lifted out 
of poverty represents more than 70% of the world total and, according to its authorities, the goal of 
eradicating poverty set by the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has been  
met, 10 years ahead of schedule, which is admirable and remarkable.  
4.629.   Moreover, we recognize China's efforts to work hard to ensure that the WTO plays an 
important role in pandemic prevention and control and economic recovery, and we note China's 
commitment  to continuing to participate actively in our discussions on the liberalization of trade in 
medical products, vaccine IPR exemption and other trade and health related issues.  
4.630.   From the reports, China will continue to strengthen South South cooperation, by c ontributing 
to poverty eradication, debt relief and economic growth of developing Members, and strengthening 
cooperation in agriculture, health, disaster mitigation and water resources.  
4.631.   With respect to this last topic, we highlight that China is associated  with the hydroelectric 
project on the Patuca River with the company Sinohydro and the Patuca III Dam is the second largest 
hydroelectric dam in Honduras, with an investment of USD 460 million, and a capacity to generate 
104 megawatts of clean energy.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 71 - 
 
  4.632.   Regarding our bilateral trade and investment, it reflects a trade balance in deficit for our 
country, and in 2020 we imported around USD 923 million in, inter alia, iron and steel, machinery, 
appliances, electrical equipment, vehicles and footwear, and exporte d USD 46 million in minerals, 
garments and clothing accessories and knitwear, ash, machinery, appliances and electrical 
equipment.  
4.633.   Finally, let me reiterate our appreciation for this latest opportunity to discuss and examine 
China's trade policies and practices, while wishing the authorities every success in presenting its 
Trade Policy Review mechanism.  
KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.634.   The Kyrgyz Republic warmly welcomes the delegation of the People’s Republic of China led 
by His Excellency Trade Minister Wang Wentao an d Ambassador Li Chenggang.  
4.635.   We would like to express our gratitude to the WTO Secretariat and to the Chinese  
Government for providing such c ompre hensive reports of the e ighth Trade Policy Review of China. 
We would also like to thank the d iscussant, H.E. Amb assador Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her 
insightful comments.  
4.636.   Sharing a border with us on the East and Southeast, China is one of the key trading partners 
for already three decades since our independence. Beginning from 1991 , when the People's Republic  
of China was one of the first countries to recognize the independence of the Kyrgyz Republic, we 
enjoy the trade and economic partnership with China.  
4.637.   As of today, our countries have signed numerous agreements, which set a certain basis in 
regards to legal framework, administrative processes which is allowing further development of a 
mutually beneficial relations and diversified cooperation on bilateral level between our countries, as 
well as on the regional and international levels including in the fr amework of Shanghai Cooperation 
Organization, the  United Nations, WTO and other International O rganizations.  
4.638.   With regard to bilateral trade and economic relations, it should be noted that, despite the 
difficult situation in the global economy, China remain s one of the main trade and economic partners 
of the Kyrgyz Republic.  
4.639.   The high level of political mutual trust is being continuously supported and reinforced by the 
leaders of our countries through series of reciprocal high -level visits and development of diplomatic 
relationship.  
4.640.   Furthermore, the Kyrgyz Republic was one of the first countries to officially confirm the 
country's active participation in the revival of the Great Silk Road in 2014. The initiative on economic 
development framework for primarily integrating trade and investment in Eurasia by building the 
Silk Road Economic Belt also known as One Belt - One Road is being considered by Kyrgyz Republic 
as a way to promote the opening -up of inland and border areas as well as balanced development 
among  different regions.  
4.641.   We are pleased to see that China continues to deepen its market -oriented reforms, moving 
in the direction of liberalization and simplification of its procedures, including customs reforms, which 
will contribute into removing of trade ba rriers.  
4.642.   Since the beginning of its M embership to the WTO, China has demonstrated its highest of 
dedications to the WTO rules and has continuously shown its commitment to trade liberalization 
under the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO.  
4.643.   To dat e, about 250 interstates , intergovernmental, interdepartmental and other bilateral 
documents have been signed between the Kyrgyz Republic and the People's Republic of China, which 
indicates the existence of a serious legal framework and the desire of the t wo countries to 
consistently develop mutually beneficial cooperation.  
4.644.   Trade and economic cooperation is the main catalyst for the development of Kyrgyz -Chinese 
relations. Interaction in this direction is carried out within the framework signed in 1998 of the WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 72 - 
 
  intergovernmental agreements on trade and economic cooperation and the creation of an 
intergovernmental Kyrgyz -Chinese Commission on trade and economic cooperation since 1994.  
4.645.   The trade turnover between the Kyrgyz Republic and China in 2020 amounted to 
USD 781.2  million and in comparison with 20 19 decreased by 2.3 times, including  export 
USD 43.2 million (decreased by 1.9 times), imports USD 736.9 million (decreased by almost 
2.4 times).  
4.646.   There is an increase in the volume of trade between the Kyrgyz Repu blic and China this year. 
In January -July 2021 , the trade turnover between the Kyrgyz Republic and China in comparison with 
the same period in 2020 increased by 1.7 times and amounted to USD 718.2 million , including import 
USD 681.4 million (growth by 1.7 times), export by 1.4 times and amounted to USD 36.8 million.  
4.647.   Inflow of foreign direct investment from China to the Kyrgyz Republic in 2016 amounted to 
USD 301.303 million and grew to USD 338.052 million by 2019. Investments at the end of 2020 
amounted to USD 136.1 million.  
4.648.   The main export items from the Kyrgyz Republic to China  are food products and agricultural 
raw materials (honey, tobacco products, various nuts, fresh and dried fruits, drinks, etc.), raw hides, 
tanned leather, ores and concentrates of p recious metals, equipment and mechanical devices, 
vehicles and their parts. Import from the PRC to the glass, ceramics, cement, leather, wood, paper 
and cardboard.  
4.649.   The most important and promising areas of bilateral trade and economic interaction are 
coope ration in the development of infrastructure and transport, energy, processing industry, 
agriculture, mining, tourism, as well as cross -border cooperation.  
4.650.   Currently, the parties are successfully implementing a number of joint projects in the Kyrgyz 
Republi c, which are of great socio -economic importance for Kyrgyzstan.  
4.651.   Broad opportunities for cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and China are also provided  by the 
"One Belt  One Road" and the "Economic Belt of the Silk Road" initiatives. These initiatives have a 
long-term multi -directional character and aimed at expanding cooperation in the trade and economic 
sphere, in the field of infrastructure, including transport and energy, in the investment and financial 
fields.  
4.652.   Before concluding, we want to thank H.E. Ambassa dor Li and our colleagues at the 
Permanent mission of the People’s Republic of China to the WTO for their active contributions and 
constructive engagement in the negotiations at the WTO and their close cooperation with our 
delegation.  
4.653.   In conclusion, the Ky rgyz Republic wishes to the delegation of the People’s Repub lic of China 
a very successful Trade Policy R eview.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 73 - 
 
  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  My colleagues and I listened attentive ly to the remarks made by Madam Chair, the d iscussant 
and representatives from 65  Members  on Wednesday and today . 
5.2.  I would like to thank you very much all for the remarks. We very much appreciate your 
recognition of China’s commitments and efforts in advancing opening -up to higher level, in 
supporting international cooperation in the fight against COVID -19, in promoting trade and 
investment liberalizatio n and facilitation, and in supporting the multilateral trading system.  
5.3.  Most of  the concerns raised by Members in their remarks have been addressed in Minister Wang 
Wentao’s statement and my own remarks, as well as  in our replies to the written questions. Here, I 
wish to address  some of these concerns a bit further.  
With regard to the Belt and Road Initiative  
5.4.  In 2019, President Xi Jinping emphasized at the Second Belt and Road Forum for International 
Cooperation held in Beijing that China will adhere to ope nness, green development and clean 
governance, and total transparency in the implementation of the Belt and Road  Initiative.  
5.5.  For BRI projects, China attaches great importance to strengthening debt management, helping 
partner countries to improve debt susta inability and enhance their sovereign debt risk prevention 
capabilities. For that purpose, China has jointly approved the “Belt and Road Initiative Financing 
Guiding Principle s” with 27 countries.  
With regard to Forced Transfer of Technology and IPR Protection  
5.6.  In China’s current law and regulations, there is no provision whatsoever that forces foreign 
companies to transfer their technology to the Chinese companies. On the contrary, the 
Administrative Licensing Law of China revised in April 2019 and th e Foreign Investment Law 
implemented in January 2020 both explicitly stipulate that administrative agencies and their staff in 
China shall not force the transfer of technology.  
5.7.  China has gone a long way in strengthening the protection of intellectual prop erty rights and 
achieved remarkable results. The number of patent applications in China has been ranking first 
globally in several  years. Two years ago,  the number of invention patents and trademark applications 
in China filed by foreign owners reached 157 ,000 and 255,000 respectively, representing an annual 
increase of 6% and 4.7% respectively  over the previous year . 
5.8.  Furthermore, China is now  an important buyer of the IPRs. Last year , the amount of intellectual 
property fees paid by China reached USD 37.6 billion, 1.7 times of the amount in 2015.  
With regard to Dual Circulation  
5.9.  President Xi Jinping has pointed out that dual circulation is by no means a closed -door 
circulation, rather it is an open  international dual circulation.  It not only serves the needs  of China's 
own development, but also creates vast market opportunities for other economies  and contributes 
more welf are to peoples of all nations. President Xi Jinping  also stresses that China will not shut its 
door, and instead China will open its door e ven wider.  
5.10.   China keeps expanding domestic demand, while avoiding over -reliance on exports.  The ratio 
of China’s expor ts to its GDP was 17% last year . The exports to GDP ratio for the United States was 
6.8%, and that for Japan was 12%.  We can see China ’s economy relies  more on export s than the 
United States, Japan and many other economies.  
5.11.   One important reason for China's expansion of domestic circulation is that some countries 
have imposed undue  export controls on China under the pretext of national security, which cut off 
the supply chain for Chinese enterprises.  
5.12.   Consequently, China has no  choice but to do the research and development on these products 
and technologies that cannot be purchased in the international market.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 74 - 
 
  With regard to Anti dumping and Countervailing  measures taken by China  
5.13.   Some Members mentioned in their statements that Ch ina frequently uses anti dumping and 
countervailing measures.  
5.14.   This is not true. In fact, China has exercised much restraint in taking antidumping and 
countervailing measures, and China has strictly followed  the provisions of the WTO anti dumping and 
SCM agre ements in initiating investigations.  
5.15.   According to the statistics of the WTO, there have been around 911 antidumping and 
countervailing investigations initiated during the review period . 
5.16.   Of these cases, there are only 42 cases initiated by China . So, that means  China accounts for 
only 4.6% of the total  AD/CVD cases initiated globally over the review period . And d uring the same 
period  of time , China’s imports accounted for 11% of the global imports. Evidently, these two figures 
are very much disproportionate . 
5.17.   For the same peri od between 2018 and 2020, some Members ha ve launched as many as 
266 antidumping and countervailing cases against China, accounting for 26% of the total cases, in 
sharp contrast with 13.5% that China’s exports account for in the global  total exports. Therefore , it 
is China who is the very Member suffe ring the largest number of anti dumping and countervailing 
investiga tions in the world, and clearly , China is  the biggest victim of the abusive trade remedy 
measures by some Members.  
With regard to Non -transparent and Unfair Operation in China’s Government Procurement 
Practices  
5.18.   China’s Government Procurement Law clearly provides that suppliers shall not be subject to 
different or discriminatory treatment under unreasonable conditions. The F oreign Investment Law 
requires that domestic and foreign -invested enterprises are treated equally in government 
procurement.  
5.19.   On 13 October this year, just one week ago actually, China issued the Notice to Implement 
the Equal Treatment to Foreign -invested and Domestic Enterprises in Government Procurement 
Activities, which requires that foreign -invested and domestic enterprises participate in government 
procurement in China on an equal basis.  
5.20.   China implements government procurement in a transparent way and publicly releases 
product and service list for government procurement in accordance with laws and regulations. It's a 
public tendering procedure. China has made tremendous efforts in its bid to join the GPA of the WTO 
over the past 14 years.  
5.21.   Up to now, Chi na has submitted 7 GPA revised offers. The coverage of China’s offers has been 
increasingly expanding and reached a level that is equivalent to the commitments of major GPA 
parties. The size of China’s government procurement market is huge. Last year , the scale of national 
government procurement including local governments at all levels reached 3.7 trillion yuan, an 
increase of 11% over the year before . 
5.22.   My colleagues told me that New Zealand submitted its application to GPA in 2012 , five years 
after China filed for application to join the GPA. Nonetheless, New Zealand became a party in 2015, 
and now New Zealand is a veteran GPA party for years. We admire New Zealand. However, we think 
that China’s  accession to the GPA cannot simply reply on China’s own effor ts. 
5.23.   We hope all GPA members will  engage in the negotiations in a more flexible and pragmatic 
manner, so that China will become a GPA party as early as possible for the benefit of all GPA 
members .  
With regard to non -market p ractices and  the SOEs  in China  
5.24.   The Constitution of China stipulates that China practices a socialist market economy.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 75 - 
 
  5.25.   China has continuously promoted and deepened the process of marketization. Currently in 
China, interest rates and exchange rate are determined by market forces . 
5.26.   The Bankruptcy Law is uniformly applicable to all types of market entities  in China . At present, 
more than 97% of China’s goods and service prices are determined by the market. The scope of 
pricing set by the government is mainly limited to public utilit ies and public welfare services.  
5.27.   Article 16 of China’s Constitution stipulates that state -owned enterprises have the right to 
operate autonomously within the scope prescribed by laws and regulations.  
5.28.   As independent market entities that operate on their o wn, the SOEs in China take 
responsibilities for their profits or losses, assume their own risks, keep self -disciplined and seek 
self-development.  
5.29.   The SOEs participate in market competition in the same manner as enterprises of other 
ownerships. The SOEs in China do not enjoy any privileges. Since 2018, the reform of the SOEs has 
achieved profound progress.  
5.30.   The reform to convert the SOEs into standard corporations  has fully been accomplished. The 
number of SOEs with mixed ownership accounts f or more than 70% of the total. Last year , the 
imports and exports of SOEs in China accounted for only 14.3% of China’s total foreign trade.  
5.31.   The G overnment of China does not grant subsidies on the basis of the types of ownership.  
With regard to Overcapacit y 
5.32.   Since 2015, China has been carrying out the supply -side structural reform, producing 
remarkable progress in over -capacity  reduction . 
5.33.   For example, between  2018 and 2020, China has reduced over 150 million ton nes of crude 
steel production capacity and the utilization rate returned to an appropriate range of over 80%. The 
capacity utilization rate of the alumin um industry was above 85%.  
5.34.   Last year , the net export of China’s crude steel was 16.72 million ton nes accounting for only 
1.6% of China’s total crude s teel output and China's net steel export took up only 4.2% of the global 
export. For the aluminium industry, China exported 4.6 million ton nes of aluminum last year, down 
by 10%, accounting for only 8% of China’s aluminum total output.  
5.35.   China maintains cont rol over new capacity and is committed to establishing and improving a 
long-term mechanism for resolving excess capacity through marketization and rule of law.  
With regard to Forced Labour  
5.36.   China is firmly oppose d to any form of forced labour in China's eco nomic activities . 
5.37.   The Criminal Law of China explicitly prohibits forced labour and the Law stipulates that in 
cases where the circumstances of violation are serious, the persons who are directly responsible for 
offence shall be sentenced to imprisonment of  three to ten years.  
5.38.   Meanwhile, the laws and regulations of China clearly prohibit the export of forced  labour 
products. Therefore, it is totally unwarranted to withhold export from China into some members on 
the ground of forced labour.  
With regard to Economic Coercive Measures  
5.39.   China is strongly  opposed to unilateralism and protectionism measures, including the 
economic coercive measur es. China actually is a victim of these measures itself. The dispute 
settlement mechanism of the WTO could be relied on to find a satisfactory resolution to any trade 
dispute.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 76 - 
 
  5.40.   Since accession to the WTO, China has respected and implemented all the rulings whether 
favourable  or adverse to China made by the WTO Dispute Settlement Body. It is a shame that due 
to the boycott by a single Member, the WTO Appellate Body has fallen into paralysis.   
5.41.   China is glad to see a Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arra ngement (MPIA) being 
operational at the time when WTO A ppellate Body is out of operation. China accepts the rules and 
procedures of the MPIA and is willing to work with all parties to resolve disputes under this 
Arrangement.  
5.42.   China has taken note of the Aus tralia’s allegation about China’s import restrictions. That 
accusation is groundless. According to Australian statistics, Australia’s global trade surplus last year  
was about USD 39 billion while Australia's trade surplus with China was USD 40 billion , larger than 
Australia's global trade surplus . 
5.43.   For the first eight months of this year, Australia’s exports to China reached USD 99 billion, up 
by 53.1% over the same period last year. This is also Australia’s trade statistics. Facts speak louder 
than words.  
With regard to temporary preventive measures under the pandemic  
5.44.   China has adopted scientifically -based pandemic prevention and control measures, which are 
necessary to prevent imported cases. As of today, inbound cases have been effectively prevented, 
and t he Chinese economy achieved the earliest recovery, which contribute to the global economic 
growth.   
5.45.   The measures taken by China have not affected adversely other WTO Members’ exports to 
China. To take meat as an example, China imported almost 10  million t onnes of meat from other 
WTO Members last year , with an annual increase by 60.4%.  
5.46.   In terms of international travel , China has continuously taken proactive measures to create 
conditions  to facilitate the international travel of  business people  into China .  
With regard to Transparency  
5.47.   China has done a relatively good job in fulfilling its obligations of notification under the WTO 
agreements. During the review period, in accordance with the requirements of the WTO, China 
submitted its notifications of subsidies in 2019 and 2021 , respectively.  
5.48.   These notifications cover 150 subsidy programmes at central level and 794 programmes  at 
sub-central level, including tax incentives for the integrated circuit, refined oil for fishery subsidies, 
new energy vehicle purchase subsidies, subsidies for the iron and steel industry to resolve excess 
capacity and other subsidies for some key indust ries.  
5.49.   On 15 and 19 October , a few days ago  just before this review, China submitted its latest 
notifications on quantitative restrictions and state trading respectively. The Secretariat has yet to 
circulate these notifications. In addition, China will sub mit the latest notification on domestic support 
in agriculture in the first half of next year.  
With regard to Trade Surplus  
5.50.   As a major exporter and importer, China does not seek trade surplus with its trading partners  
as a policy . According to the UK’s Ec onomist magazine, the edition of 9 -15 October this year, 
according to that magazine, China's current account surplus accounted for 2.8% of i ts GDP, for 
Japan  it was 3.4% , for Euro Zone countries  it was 3.3% , and for the USA, it was -3.4%. So , you can 
see C hina’s trade is more balanced than some of the major economies.  
5.51.   China’s import of goods ranks the second place in the world, totalling about USD 2 trillion last 
year. To break down, the industrial products accounted for 60% of the total imports, and agricu ltural 
products 10%, while energy and mineral products took up 28%.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 77 - 
 
  5.52.   To increase imports, China hosts the China International Import Expo e very year for four 
years in a row and China welcomes all WTO M embers including India and Brazil which have expressed 
their interest s in exporting more products  to China , to export products, industrial and agricultural 
produces alike  to China . I am also told by my colleagues that 139 economies in the world are 
represented in the China International Import Expo , the upcomi ng one w ill take place between 
November  5 and November 10. So, we welcome more businesses from WTO Members to be 
represented.  
5.53.   I have also taken note of the questions raised by Uganda and Mongolia. We will answer  your 
questions in due course.  
5.54.   I have also taken note of the remarks by some LDC members. I want to assure you that China 
places a lot of emphasis on cooperation with LDCs. In my remarks on Wednesday, I have stated that 
China accorded 0 tariff treatment on 97% all tariff lines to 42 LDC s. China has been the biggest 
export market for LDCs in the past 12 years. China will continue to  support LDCs endeavour to 
integrate into the global trading system through China cooperation projects with the WTO 
Secretariat. I also want to reassure LDC co untries that China’s market will continue to be open to 
your products and services and we particularly welcome you to participate in the China International 
Import Expo to sell your goods and services. We welcome you to participate in China International 
Fair for investment and trade which is also an important platform for attracting investment into your 
countries. We also hope you could make the best use of the e -commerce to export your goods to 
China  via global e -commerce platforms.  
5.55.   In conclusion, I want  to express my appreciation to all those colleagues who have made 
comments either praising China or being critical of China. I want to say that through this exercise 
of trade Policy review we have taken note of the concerns of all  relevant  WTO Members and we will 
address those concerns in a very constructive and efficient manner. And I am sure that China’s 
market will be available and providing more opportunities for all WTO Members. Thank you, Madam  
Chair.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.56.   Madam Chair, I would like to start by c ongratulating China, led today by Vice Minister Wang 
Shouwen, and also  Ambassador Chenggang Li and their teams for their active participation in this 
Trade Policy Review. China received over 2000 questions covering a w ide variety of issues and 
China’ s resp onse within the timeframes demonstrates a tremendous commitment to the Trade Policy 
Review Mechanism and the number of questions from Members also shows the value the 
membership at taches to the TPRM, given China’ s important role in the global economy.  
5.57.   There are a number of issues that came up in the review. Members noted the significance of 
this review given that it coincides wit h the 20th anniversary of China’ s accession to the WTO. They 
also highlight ed the role of the MTS in China’ s integration into the  global economy. Members noted 
the remarkable progress China has achieved since its accession to the WTO, the expansion of China’ s 
share of global trade and the progress it has achieved in lifting millions of people from pover ty. 
Members also welcomed Chin a’s continuous support fo r the multilateral trading system. Some 
welcomed China’ s effort for combating unilateralism, protectionism and its support for global 
cooperation. Some Members highlighted the need for China to play a constructive role to improve 
the multilateral trading system  and for China to take more responsibility commensurate with its 
economic weight and level of development.  
5.58.   Like in any other Review, there are concerns that were shared by Members and areas for 
improvement. These include the n eed to improve notification obligations, especially in relation to 
state trading entities and domestic support. Some highlighted t he importance of ensuring a 
non-discriminatory public procurement system so as to also open space for participation of foreign  
entities. It was noted that the Government Procurement law is being revised and Members are 
hoping for equal access to public procurement for both foreign companies and S OEs so as to level 
the playing field. The need to address competition distortions and  the support provided to S OEs was 
emphasized. Concerns were also raised with regards to industrial subsidies provided by China that 
lead to overcapacity. Other Members raised the importance of addressing investment restrictions 
and the need to strengthen t he enforcement of IP rights. Some were of the view that China must do 
more to ensure that incentives are given on an equitable basis. Members also raised questions about WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 78 - 
 
  the scientific rationale of COVID -19 measures which they considered stringent and call ed for lifting 
of such measures in light of FAO guidance and highlighted the impact these measures have on their 
products of export interest. Concerns were also raised with regard s to the implications of Decree  248 
and 249 and some Members requested China to review the implementation date.  
5.59.   In relation to LDCs, some Members enqui red about China’ s plan to implement preferential 
Rules of Origin, and whether the preferential access granted to LDCs will also apply to graduating 
LDCs.  
5.60.   Importantly, Members also appreciated the opportunity provided by t he TPR in taking stock 
of China’ s role in the MTS.  Members acknowledged the positive and active engagement by China in 
the WTO, including in the JSIs. Members also acknowledged the market  reforms that China has  
implemented towards opening -up its economy, although some Members expected China to do more 
and implement deeper market reforms given its increasing importance and stature in the global 
economy. Other  Members also appreciated China’ s commitment to South -South cooperation, 
through various initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative and technical assistance provided 
to developing countries and LDCs.  
5.61.   It has been a pleasure and an honour  to be the discussant for China’ s eighth Trade Policy 
Review. I wa nt to thank you , Chair , as well as  the WTO Secretariat for their efforts. And finally, I 
would like to once more congratulate the Chine se delegation for a successful R eview.  
UGANDA  
5.62.   Good morning to all, to China, to the Chair, Ambassador Madam Molokomme, to  the 
discussant, Madam Mlumbi -Peter, to the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, to the 
Chinese delegation to the WTO led by Ambassador Li and to the Chinese delegation in Geneva. I 
want to thank you for the opportunity to speak at this memorabl e occasion, to welcome China and 
thank them and congratulate them as well for their 20th anniversary of acceding to the WTO.  
5.63.   I would like to sincerely apologize for Uganda's inability to speak on Wednesday. This was due 
to a technical issue. We had an issu e with our numbers. We had different numbers from our 
Presidency and different numbers from our Ministry and we needed to share accurate numbers with 
China. I was pulled out of the room for that reason but today we are able to share accurate numbers. 
My sincere apologies.  
5.64.   I would like to give a bit of context to Uganda's submission at this time. Without China, there 
is no concept in my country for a post -COVID -19 recovery. This is a novel concept and let me explain. 
My Government is still working through a shut down and a lock down, with only 20% of our offices 
open to essential workers, including the Government; our schools, as listed by UNESCO yesterday, 
have been closed for over 77 weeks; in English, this would be 18 months. All our tertiary institutions 
of education are closed indefinitely. To say that our small businesses have been wiped out, closed 
or decimated is an understatement. As you well know, our population is roughly 40 million. Our 
population remains largely unvaccinated, save for approximatel y 1.5 million, many of whom have 
received a vaccination from China.  
5.65.   Uganda is very much in the eye of COVID and discussing of post -COVID -19 strategy remains 
an anomaly. However, we would like to celebrate with China. Uganda would like to thank China for 
its constant resilient support of our health care system. As of October 2021, Uganda has received 
over 2 million doses of China's Sinopharm vaccine and an additional 700,000 doses of Sinovac, 
supporting Uganda's vaccine drive for all health care workers, for  our teachers, for our patients with 
other comorbidities and our marginalized population.  
5.66.   Uganda looks to China for further discussions on potential purchasing agreements on the 
vaccine that will allow for increased access to China's vaccines for all. That  said, we do not disregard 
China's donations to our country for, without that, we would not be able to begin to discuss continued 
post-COVID development.  
5.67.   On paragraph 10, China shared information on the progress of poverty alleviation that has 
been achieved by China over the last decade, resulting from high GDP growth rates and market -
oriented reforms. In many ways, there is no conversation about poverty al leviation in Uganda WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 79 - 
 
  without China. Uganda has been a clear beneficiary of China's progress and programmes on poverty 
alleviation beyond China's borders. There is no conversation again, I repeat, on China and Uganda's 
poverty alleviation, there is no conver sation without China and, in that regard, China and Uganda's 
bilateral cooperation without the recognition of your major contributions will be remiss.  
5.68.   Our population, particularly our women, have been supported by China's economic 
transformation in my coun try. Through sustained support in the agricultural sector, particularly 
where 68% of our farmers are women, China's assistance in the value addition, various 
industrialization progress, microfinance loans for small and subsistence farmers, particularly wom en, 
has kept poverty at bay in 2020 and in 2021.  
5.69.   In agriculture in particular, Uganda has seen growth and resilience during COVID and this 
would not have been possible without China. To that regard, our question to China falls in line with 
page 10, paragra ph 1, and we would like to request China to outline its further progress in poverty 
alleviation during this review period. The intensification of our regional and bilateral and ad hoc  
economic integration efforts will be more enhanced post -COVID, as we wor k towards a more resilient 
economic structure for Uganda.  
5.70.   We can already see the advantages and the importance of the multilateral trading rules, the 
trading environment provided by the WTO and, with these lessons to be learned, we work towards 
the Africa Continental free trade area, whose primary objective is the elimination or reduction of 
tariff and non -tariff barriers amongst the 54 African States, providing a single market for goods, 
services, facilitated by movements of persons in order to deepen our economic integration and 
prosperity as Africa. Closeness to original markets has been becoming and will become more 
important as investment determinants. Let me rephrase, as China continues to take a closer look at 
our markets based on the Report before us , on page 10, paragraph 8, can China please specify main 
measures for improving foreign direct investment during this review period?  
5.71.   As our trade began, bottlenecks and global value chains immediately emerged. We have seen 
the return of protectionism, nati onalism and a prioritization on national economic policies, 
capabilities, production, financing and interventionism in the services industry.  
5.72.   As we confront severe structural impediments to development, this promises to be only the 
beginning of a change towards a more resilient and sustainable transformation for Uganda. The 
longer -term policy reaction to the pandemic and the drive for greater su pply chain resilience will 
accelerate trends and national production, cross -border regional economic trade and digitalization 
of our customs unions. China's fiscal and monetary policy reactions, as reported, and also with 
Uganda, have helped mitigate the e conomic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. As China plans to 
build a network of high -standard FTAs to promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, 
Uganda is already witnessing the benefits of this particular low -hanging fruit.  
5.73.   China and Uga nda signed an Authorized Economic Operator and Mutual Recognition 
Agreement at the 5th World Customs Organization Global AEO Conference held in Dubai. This is the 
first such agreement between China and an African country. According to China’s general 
admin istration of customs, Uganda stands to benefit greatly from simplified and digitalized customs 
procedures , much needed as we look towards our post -COVID resilien ce reforms. That said, China, 
please would you specify your main policies and measures for stre amlining customs procedures, 
particularly in Africa?  
5.74.   In conclusion, as we look to WTO's MC12, Uganda requests that China share additional 
information as well on the special preferential treatment for LDCs and with a view to assisting us 
considering our pos t-COVID economic crisis. Is there any room for additional programmes for LDCs 
and particularly to bring this particular programme of special preferential treatment to bear much 
fruit?  
5.75.   As Vice Co -Chair of the WTO's MC12, Uganda would like to conclude by as king China: 1/what 
is China’s expectation for MC12? 2/would China look to supporting Africa, the African Group, South 
Africa, India, as we look for a TRIPS waiver. We say this with great respect. We say this also as the 
grandfather of the TRIPS waiver. Uga nda was among the first countries to ask for a TRIPS waiver at 
the WTO during the HIV crisis 20 years ago, when China was acceding to the WTO. We ask that one WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 80 - 
 
  of our closest, strongest, most important ties that you would look into our conversations with 
South Africa.  
NEPAL  
5.76.   At the outset, my delegation wishes to extend  a warm welcome to the delegation of the 
People’s Republic of China led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister for Commerce. I commend 
insightful highlights on the review reports by the Minister and  Vice Minister.  
5.77.   I would like to extend sincere appreciation to the PRC Government and the WTO secretariat 
for preparing and submitting separate comprehensive and complete trade policy reports.  
5.78.   My delegation thanks H.E. Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Ambassador of South Africa for her 
comprehensive remarks as discussant.  
5.79.   I commend China’s active and constructive role in safeguarding multilateralism at the WTO 
functioning. China’s commitment to rule -based, transparent and inclusive multilateral trading 
system is laudable.  
5.80.   China’s TPRs have presented its major trade and economic policies in the review period and 
also its commendable success in growth, innovation, export promotion, and poverty alleviation 
during the past decade.  
5.81.   My delegation takes a good note of C hina becoming an example of managing the COVID -19 
pandemic successfully with minimal impact on its economy.  
5.82.   China’s support to the supply of vaccines, essential medicines and medical instruments and 
skilled human resources to the countries in need to figh t against the COVID -19 is commendable.  
5.83.   We deeply appreciate China for the medical and vaccine supplies to Nepal in our fight against 
COVID -19.  
5.84.   I wish to take a good note of China’s contribution to the global economic growth. Despite 
some negative impact o f the pandemic in 2020, the country has achieved a fast economic recovery 
resulting in an estimated growth of 6.0% in 2021.  
5.85.   Various reform initiatives taken by China during the review period mainly in foreign 
Investment regime, trade facilitation, tax reg ime, and licensing, among others have remained highly 
valued.   
5.86.   Initiatives taken through the rural revitalization strategy would contribute enhancing 
livelihood of rural people in the days ahead.   
5.87.   The Made in China initiative and the Internet Plus initia tive is a motivating factor in promoting 
its manufacturing sector.  
5.88.   The way forward presented in the government report clearly reveals its future prospect, 
especially in promoting innovative development of foreign trade, improving its business 
environment, and building a new highland for opening -up by using the pilot free trade zones and 
free trade ports as leading examples, among others.  
5.89.   While turning to the bilateral front, the relations between Ne pal and China are age -old, 
deep-rooted and close.  
5.90.   Our bilateral relations have been marked by friendliness, understanding, mutual support, 
cooperation and respect for each other’s sensitivities.  
5.91.   The friendly ties have been deepening in economic, trade and transit, investment, tourism 
and people -to-people  front ever since the establishment of bilateral relation in 1955.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 81 - 
 
  5.92.   Nepal is firmly committed to One -China policy and is also committed to not allowing its 
territory for any inimical activities against China.  
5.93.   A number of bilateral mechanisms exist to further strengthen our socio -economic relations 
between the two countries.  
5.94.   Nepal -China Joint Consultation Mechanism is one such mechanism led by the Foreign 
Secretary of Nepal and the Vice Minister of the Foreign Ministry of China, which periodically reviews  
the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation.  
5.95.   My delegation sincerely appreciates China’s assistance in Nepal’s development efforts in the 
areas of infrastructure building, industrialization process, human resour ces development, health, 
education, water resources, sports and the like.  
5.96.   With the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation under the Belt and 
Road Initiative, new avenues have opened up for bilateral cooperation in mutually agreed areas.  
5.97.   Trade, investment, tourism and infrastructure development are major areas of interest for 
economic cooperation between the countries.  
5.98.   China is the second largest trading partner of Nepal accounting for 16% of Nepal’s total trade.  
5.99.   Recent trade data revea ls that the total value of merchandise export of Nepal to China in the 
year 2020 stood around 681 million NRs whereas its total value of imports from China remained 
around 158.723 billion NRs, resulting in a huge trade deficit for Nepal of NRs 158 billion.  It shows 
Nepal’s export value 233 times less than its value of imports from China. This could be an opportunity 
for strengthening our partnership and collaboration in achieving a balanced trade in future.  
5.100.   China is the largest source of Foreign Direct Inv estment and the second largest source of 
foreign tourists to Nepal.  
5.101.   My delegation appreciates China for extending zero tariff entry facility to over 8,000 Nepali 
products in 8 digits HS code. However, Nepal hasn’t been able to harness the potential opport unity 
due to its supply -side capacity constraints.  
5.102.   Nepal and China bilateral economic and trade cooperation is further cementing through 
numbers of policy instruments signed by both countries and bilateral mechanisms established under 
those instruments. T o mention the latest few of them, successful conclusion of transit transport 
agreement and its protocol became landmark policy instrument to diversify trade and transit 
relations with Nepal.  
5.103.   In this context, I would like to mention that both countries hav e huge potentials for 
strengthening our collaboration and partnership for wider and just socio -economic benefits to us.   
5.104.   Finally, Chair, I wish a highly successful Trade Policy R eview of China.  
ECUADOR  
5.105.   I would like to convey the gratitude of our authorit ies to you, Chair, and to the discussant 
for your hard work in facilitating this important Trade Policy Review. We would also like to express 
our appreciation for the work of the WTO Secretariat. I extend our greetings and congratulations to 
the Chinese de legation, led by Minister Wang Wentao, Deputy Minister Wang Shouwen and, of 
course, Ambassador Li and his team in Geneva. Unfortunately, Ambassador Valencia is unable to 
join us today. However, I will make our statement on his behalf.  
5.106.   Ecuador considers Chi na as a strategic partner in a number of areas of its international 
relations, including trade and investment. Both countries have achieved mutually beneficial results 
and increased their cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, mi nerals and 
finance.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 82 - 
 
  5.107.   Ecuador and China have supported each other during the COVID 19 pandemic. Ecuador 
appreciates the important supply of vaccines which, together with those acquired from other 
countries, allowed our Government to successfully immunize 70%  of the Ecuadorian population to 
date. 
5.108.   Ecuador joining the Belt and Road initiative in December 2018 and the Asian Infrastructure 
Investment Bank in November 2019 has made it possible to boost cooperation with China, promote 
direct investment, generate eff icient digital economy networks and launch new links between 
countries in the Asia Pacific region with a view to improving trade routes and opening new markets. 
All of this is very positive for Ecuador at a time when the global public health crisis has had  a serious 
impact on trade expectations.  
5.109.   We congratulate China on its eighth Trade Policy Review. On this occasion, Ecuador has 
submitted written questions regarding China's trade policies in a number of areas, including sanitary 
and phytosanitary measures  and trade facilitation issues.  
5.110.   We recognize China's important and active participation in the multilateral trading system, 
as well as its progress in a number of areas, which is recorded in the Secretariat's report; for 
example, in trade facilitation for import registration, documentation and inspection requirements, as 
well as in response to the COVID 19 pandemic. The national single window for international trade, 
for example, has been expanded and the overall time for customs clearance of imports throug hout 
the country has been reduced.  
5.111.   China participates in the joint statement initiatives in the WTO on electronic commerce, 
investment facilitation, and small and medium sized enterprises. We also acknowledge its 
participation in the working group on gende r and as a coordinator of the Informal Dialogue on Plastics 
Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade, together with Australia, Barbados, 
Ecuador, Fiji and Morocco. We value the establishment of synergies and cooperation with other 
internati onal processes on the subject within this framework.  
5.112.   We congratulate China on the anniversary of its accession to the WTO and because, since 
China's 2018 Trade Policy Review, the country's economy continues to be a major driver of global 
growth, with progr ess on poverty alleviation achieved in recent decades, resulting from high GDP 
growth rates and market -oriented  reforms. We encourage the continuation of those reforms.  
SRI LANKA  
5.113.   My delegation welcomes the delegation of the People’s Republic of China led b y His 
Excellency Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of the Ministry of Commerce for the eighth review of the trade 
policies and practices of China.  
5.114.   We thank Her Excellency  Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, the d iscussant, for her insights and 
report and the WTO Secretariat and the Government of China for their comprehensive reports made 
available to the Members.  
5.115.   As my delegation noted that China has maintained its position as the world's second largest 
importer of goods, which accounted for 11.5% of global import s in 2020, for the 12 consecutive 
years. China is also the second largest importer of services trade in the world.  
5.116.   As we are well known, during the COVID -19 outbreak, when people's safety and health were 
seriously endangered, China mobilized maximum effor ts and resources within the shortest period of 
time to contain the spread of the pandemic and took urgent steps to send medical assistance 
overseas, donating medical supplies to countries and International Organizations across the globe. 
The complete indus trial chains and strong support systems in China played a positive role in boosting 
the recovery of the world economy. Sri Lanka as a beneficiary country of pandemic support extended 
by China, we highly appreciate China’s initiatives and assistance during the pandemic.  
5.117.   We acknowledge that China, who is celebrating 20th Anniversary of Accession to the WTO, 
is a strong supporter of the open and rule -based multilateral trading system, and active participant 
and major contributor to the multilateral trading sy stem. Its initiatives and encouragements for WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 83 - 
 
  other members to maintain a rule -based, transparent, non -discriminatory, open and inclusive 
multilateral trading system, and to oppose unilateralism and protectionism is commendable.  
5.118.   It is commendable that China has fulfilled all its notification obligations under all WTO 
Agreements. As the largest developing member, China has made significant progress in subsidy 
notification, which is the most difficult exercise in terms of data colle ction process. China has further 
streamlined import administration procedures and continuously lowered import tariffs which are 
beneficial for developing countries, in particular the LDCs.  
5.119.   On bilateral economic cooperation, China was the 8th export market  for Sri Lanka with a 
share of 2.25% in 2020 and the largest import partner with a share of 22.95% in 2020. China was 
number one among FDI origins to Sri Lanka in 2019. Chinese investments have contributed 
immensely to expand the economy, employment and ta x revenue in Sri Lanka.  China was the 3rd 
largest source of tourist traffic to Sri Lanka in 2019 with 8.76% of the total traffic received in 2019. 
These facts indicate that China is one of the major economic partners of Sri Lanka.  
5.120.   Both Sri Lanka and Chin a are signatories of the Asia Pacific  Trade Agreement (APTA) and 
Sri Lanka’s exports and imports under APTA shows increasing trend during the last few years.  
5.121.   Holding “South Asia Expo” dedicated to South Asian products, is an important measure that 
has bee n taken by the Government of China to promote fruitful trade and economic cooperation 
between China and South Asian Countries. Organizers of the Expo provide free exhibition   facilities 
as well as assisting with the customs clearance and product promotion  to encourage   enterprises 
from South Asia. Notably, it is more useful for the Sri Lankan SMEs. Sri Lanka has been participating 
at this fair (South Asian Commodity fair) from its inception in 2007. The success of participation at 
the previous events enco uraged Sri Lanka to participate at the future fairs too, and we look forward 
China’s cooperation in this regard in the future as well.  
5.122.   Sri Lanka -China Joint Committee for Trade and Economic Cooperation was established in 
1991. The Sixth Session of t he Join t Committee was held on 7th June 2014 in Beijing. As per a 
decision taken at this meeting, both sides launched negotiations on an FTA which has not yet been 
concluded.  
5.123.   In concluding, my delegation appreciates China’s highly valued contribution to the 
multilateral trade system, and its active engagement in the negotiations on most of the key areas, 
including in the reform process for making the WTO a viable forum for meaningful negotiations, and 
we too value its contributions in the area of technical assista nce for building the capacity of 
developing countries and LDCs in many related areas.  
5.124.   The dynamic role played by Ambassador LI Chenggang, Permanent Representative to the 
WTO and his able and dedicated team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing activ ities of the 
WTO, is highly commendable.  
5.125.   We wish delegation of China a successful deliberation on its Trade Policy Review.  
EGYPT  
5.126.   Egypt associates itself with the sta tement delivered by Mauritius on behalf of the African 
Group, and joi ns others in extending  a very warm welcome to the Chinese delegation headed by His 
Excellency Mr. Wang Wentao,  Honourable Minister of Commerce, as well as the esteemed colleagues 
both from Beijing and in Geneva.  
5.127.   We thank Her Excellency Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (of South Africa) for the 
insightful comments as discussant, and express our appreciation to both China and the WTO 
Secretariat for their comprehensive reports.  
5.128.   It gives us great pleasure to participate in the 8th TPR of China, and we start by 
acknowledging China’s  prominent contribution to trade and global economic growth. Indeed, China 
represents a success story for leveraging trade for economic development.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 84 - 
 
  5.129.   Egypt congratulates China for its strong economic performance and notable achievements 
during the review pe riod, including efforts to help mitigate the severe impact of COVID -19 pandemic. 
I seize this opportunity to underscore our mutual cooperation in responding to the pandemic, and 
express Egypt’s appreciation for China’s support in responding to the pandemic , especially providing 
vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics, as well as helping local vaccine production in Egypt.  
5.130.   The Secretariat report highlights many facets of China’s wide range of economic reform 
policies during the review period, including those related to promoting investment, innovation, 
intellectual property rights, services liberalization, as well as the full and early implementation of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement resulting in better customs clearance performance. We commend the 
Chinese g overnment for such significant progress, and encourage it to continue on this path and 
extend its reform efforts to encompass other important areas of its trade policy.  
5.131.   We applaud China’s general reduction of simple applied average MFN tariffs on almost al l 
product categories; however, the Secretariat’s report also notes that the average applied tariff on 
several agricultural products remains higher than on non -agricultural ones.  
5.132.   Egypt and China share ever -growing bilateral relations owing to the comprehens ive and 
strategic partnership between both countries, which paints broader horizons for deeper cooperation 
on both bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly on the economic front.  
5.133.   Egypt regards China as an integral development partner, as it is our l argest individual trade 
partner, and a pivotal investor in several mega -projects, including infrastructure, the New 
Administrative Capital, as well as in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. However, we strongly encourage 
China to intensify bilateral cooperation and extend it to wider areas in trade and investment where 
considerable potential remains untapped.  
5.134.   We highlight that bilateral trade value grew by 9% to record USD 14 million in 2020, yet the 
value of Egyptian exports to China witnessed a decrease during the same period. In this regard, we 
note the difficulties faced by Egyptian exporters of some agricultural and processed agricultural 
products due to the prolonged duration by the relevant Chinese authorities to grant the required 
approvals, as in the case  of dried dates and s emi-dried dates. We also refer to the pending request 
submitted by Egypt in 2019 for granting market access to our exports of pomegranates to the 
Chinese market, for which no feedback has been received as of yet. In this context, we ca ll upon 
China to facilitate and accelerate procedures of granting market access to agricultural exports.  
5.135.   Finally, Egypt reaffirms its aspirations to deepen cooperation between both countries and 
wishes the Chinese delega tion a successful and fruitful Trade  Policy R eview.  
BOLIVIA  
5.136.   Bolivia welcomes Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce of China, the Deputy Minister of 
Foreign Trade and Ambassador Li Chenggang and the entire Chinese delegation. We appreciate their 
presentation at this Trade Policy Review and the information shared with all WTO Members. We also 
thank the Secretariat for its report and the Ambassador of South Africa for her important 
contributions.  
5.137.   China is one of Bolivia's main trading partners and a market for Bolivian exports of minerals 
such as zinc, silver and lead. It is also one of the main destinations for Bolivian beef; between 
January and June 2021 it managed to export 9,121 tonnes to China, worth USD 45.2 million. This 
market accounts for around 85% of the total amount of exports of th at product. Bolivia also exported 
around 600 tonnes of quinoa to China before the health crisis, which is one of our country's most 
important products, as are several other high quality products that Bolivia produces.  
5.138.   Within the excellent relations that Bo livia has with China, we hope to further improve and 
strengthen our trade relations, using as a basis the memorandum of understanding signed in 2019, 
especially in areas such as infrastructure, logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, industry, services, 
and others, to overcome the current negative trade balance.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 85 - 
 
  5.139.   We also hope to continue exploring export channels for other Bolivian products such as 
soybean sprouts, milo, coffee, cocoa, acai berries, and to invest in the automotive and 
pharmaceutical sectors.  
5.140.   Bolivia recognizes China as a strategic partner in the global economic recovery; the upward 
trend of GDP in recent years, and especially during the pandemic year, are evidence of its high 
resilience and economic capacity.  
5.141.   In Latin American countries, the v olume of bilateral trade exchanges has been in continuous 
and sustained growth despite the health crisis. Thus, its leading role is crucial to the development 
of the region, especially with regard to manufacturing, services and infrastructure and, of cours e, in 
the opening of new trade routes such as the Silk Road generating new opportunities for our countries.  
5.142.   We share with China the vision of strengthening multilateralism and reaching consensus to 
contribute to the innovative, coordinated, green, open and  shared development of all, taking into 
account the particular circumstances and needs of developing countries and landlocked developing 
countries in terms of their specific challenges in developing their trade potential.  
5.143.   We look forward to continuing to work together on the issues that are central to our 
Organization today, WTO reform and agricultural trade reform, effective responses to the pandemic, 
trade in services, electronic commerce and finding collective responses to the climate emergency. 
This should be within the framework of a transparent and inclusive rules-based  trading system that 
incentivizes special and differential treatment for developing countries as a consolidated right of 
Members.  
5.144.   We take this opportuni ty to express our gratitude for China's commitment and support to 
Bolivia in the fight against the COVID 19 pandemic. The shipment of vaccines and medical supplies 
this year was essential to achieve an adequate response and achieve our goals. The vaccines sent 
by China amounted to a total of 9 million by September this year, enabling Bolivia to carry out a 
vaccination campaign with very good results.  
5.145.   Finally, we reiterate our appreciation for the information presented by the Chinese delegation 
and wish them  a successful eighth Trade Policy Review.  
CABO VERDE  
5.146.   Cabo Verde would first like to welcome the delegation of China, namely Minister of 
Commerce, Mr Wang Wentao, and Deputy Minister Mr Wang Shouwen, and Ambassador Li. Cabo 
Verde would also like to congratu late the Chair, Secretariat and the Ambassador for South Africa for 
their valuable contribution to this exercise.  
5.147.   The review of China's trade policy and practices is taking place in an international climate 
marked by the global COVID -19 crisis that has ser iously weakened the multilateral trading system. 
No country has been spared this major economic recession that we are currently experiencing.  
5.148.   The Republic of Cabo Verde commends the Chinese people's resilience in managing the 
COVID 19 pandemic crisis. We w ould like, once again, to express our gratitude to the Chinese 
authorities for their continued support to Africa, including Cabo Verde, development assistance, 
access to vaccines and investment during this difficult period that we are going through.  
5.149.   The pr esence of the Chinese delegation at this Review shows, once again, the country's 
commitment to full transparency in cooperating with the WTO and accelerating its previous reforms 
to meet the requirements of international trade rules geared towards developm ent and the social 
well-being of all.  
5.150.   The COVID -19 crisis has, once again, bolstered China's desire to transform its economic 
development policies, in particular for structural diversification, on the one hand, and improvements 
to the functioning of its fi nancial market and the consolidation of crucial safety nets for the population 
on the other.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 86 - 
 
  5.151.   Furthermore, my country, Cabo Verde, welcomes the adoption of measures by the Chinese 
authorities aimed at further increasing growth in domestic demand and encoura ging the expansion 
of services, as well as substantial reforms to the liberalization of trade and investment regimes in 
order to better promote competition.  
5.152.   The adoption of effective measures to counter protectionist pressures deserves particular 
attention . Furthermore, my delegation welcomes China's growing commitment to the development 
of South -South trade.  
5.153.   In conclusion, Cabo Verde encourages China to pursue its courageous reforms and invites 
Members to support and accompany it in achieving its developme nt and social progress objectives.  
ANGOLA  
5.154.   The delegation of Angola would like to congratulate China on its 8th Trade Policy Review 
presentation and discussion. We have carefully read the report from China to find an excellent, 
detailed document that highli ghts, with transparency, all of the achievements, objectives, policies, 
and practices that have been undertaken in the trade sector. Angola is particularly impressed with 
China's continuous and stable recovery of the economy after the damaging impacts of t he pandemic 
crisis, which gives a positive impulse towards world trade.  
5.155.   Angola takes note, with interest, of China's implementation of structural economic reforms, 
adjustment in industrial structure, and the new stage of development. We are pleased to 
acknowledge that the novel development paradigm, cored on domestic economic circulation, relies 
on promoting international trade and cooperation, thus generating a harmonious process of internal 
and external economic flows. It is especially relevant to follow the report’s section on high -quality 
development of trade, that includes a new optimization of trade structures and institutions 
suggesting a new incremental role to the WTO. It is particularly gratifying for Angola to see that 
China will engage in a more proactive import policy, merging with a relevant implementation of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
5.156.   The Angolan delegation also wants to thank the analytical report from the Trade Policy 
Review Body Secretariat, that provides us with a proper review of th e Chinese document, within a 
global context. The 206 pages of recommendations is notably relevant for the trade sector, as a 
profound overview of the People's Republic of China's economic achievements, which we can agree 
is a major driver of global growth and world trade development.  
5.157.   Angola has enjoyed excellent trade relations with the People's Republic of China since 
January 1983, when diplomatic ties were officially inaugurated. After timid bilateral economic 
exchanges initially, Angola exports to China  have increased at an annual rate higher than 24%, 
incrementing from a modest USD 118 million in 1995 to more than USD 20 billion. Recently, in 2018, 
Angolan exports to China have reached USD 24.5 billion, however  in 2020, they fell to 
USD 14.5 billion, ec hoing the pandemic crisis effects.  
5.158.   Nonetheless, statistics show that Angola still is the leading African exporter to China, due to 
the significant crude oil sales, accounting for 98% of bilateral exports and more than 60% of this 
national sector participa tion in the world market. At the same time, Angola is the second main 
destination of Chinese investment in Africa and a substantial financial loans recipient.  
5.159.   Nowadays, the China -Angola Chamber of Commerce registers almost 200 Angolan 
companies and more t han 100 Chinese companies, that are interested in widening the trade portfolio 
towards new areas of transport and logistics, banking, insurance, capital markets, tourism, housing, 
culture, health, education, innovation, information, and communication techn ology. 
Notwithstanding, there is still room for improving trade in mineral resources, agricultural production, 
reindustrialization, and infrastructures modernization, areas in which Angola would like to rely on 
Chinese investment and cooperation to generat e more domestic jobs and social improvement.  
5.160.   Angola is also grateful for China's recent efforts in debt and loans payment relief, 
consequences of the pandemic crisis that unfortunately will last for LDC countries, including those 
in the path of graduation like Angola.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 87 - 
 
  5.161.   Finally, the Republic of Angola  reiterates its wish to reinforce economic cooperation and 
diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in the Novel Framework Of High -Quality 
Development Of Trade, with the aim of improving Angola’s capacity of attracting more FDI, 
productive commerce, and other interest towards sustainable social development.  
5.162.   Thank you Chair for your patience, c ongratulations to China for an excellent and valuable 
Trade Policy Review.  
CHAD  ON BEHALF  OF THE LDC GROUP  
5.163.   The honourable delegation of the People's Re public of China, led by H.E. Mr Wang Wentao, 
Minister of Commerce, and including H.E. Mr Wang Shouwen, Deputy Minister, and H.E. Mr 
Chenggang Li, Permanent Representative to the WTO.  
5.164.   On behalf of the LDC Group, the Republic of Chad would like to warmly wel come the 
delegation of China for its eighth Trade Policy Review at the WTO. We also commend H.E. Ms Mlumbi 
Peter, Ambassador of South Africa, for her excellent work as discussant and the WTO Secretariat for 
preparing the Trade Policy Review report.  
5.165.   China i s a major player in world trade. As the Secretariat's report highlights, and despite the 
recent and temporary slowdown in its economic growth rates, China remains one of the main drivers 
of global growth. The rapid growth of the Chinese economy over the la st few decades, guided by 
market driven reforms, has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty.  
5.166.   Like other WTO Members, China is facing a difficult economic situation, due to the impact of 
the COVID 19 pandemic, which is continuing to affect var ious regions of the world. The GDP growth 
rate in China has gone from 7% during the 2016 –2018 period to 6% in 2019 and 2.3% in 2020. 
However, it is expected that growth will again reach 6% in 2021 and that economic activities will 
get back to normal.  
5.167.   Thus, the Chinese economy's fundamentals remain solid in the face of the current crisis. 
Annual inflows of FDI into China have continued to increase. Inflation remains subdued, ranging 
between 0.5% and 3.8% over the period of this eighth Review, and struct ural reforms continue to 
be undertaken to improve the efficiency of the private sector and increase revenue per capita, as 
well as to address climate change.  
5.168.   We congratulate the authorities of the People's Republic of China on these impressive 
economic res ults, which command respect and hopefully demonstrate the power of trade as a tool 
for achieving legitimate development aspirations. With great power comes great responsibility.  
5.169.   China is an active and important member of the multilateral trading system, ke en to 
strengthen the system and to help to achieve its objectives, as mentioned in the preamble to the 
Marrakesh Agreement.  
5.170.   China is also an important and active partner in South -South cooperation. We thank it for 
sponsoring the South -South Dialogue on LDC s and Development, the fourth series of which was held 
in Montreux last September, under the title of "Reinforcing the multilateral trading system for 
development" and enabled us to have more in depth discussions.  
5.171.   We also welcome the programme to assist LD Cs in acceding to the WTO. Through this 
programme, China provides technical assistance and support in terms of capacity building. Since the 
creation of this programme, nine round tables bringing together LDCs, China and other developing 
countries have been  organized. The last one is scheduled for March 2021.  
5.172.   With regard to trade relations with LDCs, China is our largest trading partner in terms of 
value and our WTO Group welcomes the initiatives taken by China, in particular since the Hong Kong 
Ministerial Conference in 2005, to develop trade and market access.  
5.173.   The preferences accorded by China to the LDCs affect both duty free and quota free market 
access for 97% of traders and facilitated access for LDC service suppliers, as well as the 
establishment of pr eferential rules of origin in line with the Nairobi Decision in 2015.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 88 - 
 
  5.174.   These are fundamental special and differential treatment components for our Group, which 
take into account the particular constraints and challenges that we are facing to enable us to 
integrate better into global trade.  
5.175.   We hope that these gains can be consolidated in the future. The LDC Group highly 
appreciates the support China is able to provide to LDCs in the ongoing WTO negotiations and in the 
work of the regular bodies, as well as th e support for the Enhanced Integrated Framework 
programme, which remains an important tool for LDCs in the multilateral trading system, thereby 
further strengthening the institutional and productive capacity of LDCs, including graduating LDCs, 
in accordanc e with the Sustainable Development Goals.  
5.176.   Like China, the LDC Group would like to see a strong, rules based, fair, transparent and 
inclusive multilateral trading system. We also aspire to growth and sustainable development 
benefiting our people.  
5.177.   Finally, w e hope for a fruitful deepening of our trade relations with China.  
5.178.   The LDC Group takes this opportunity to renew its congratulations to China on the initiatives 
and reforms that it has initiated. We wish it every success in the future and in this Trade Pol icy 
Review.  
MONGOLIA  
5.179.   The delegation of Mongolia would like to express gratitude to the delegation of China and 
the Secretariat for the comprehensive reports on China’s trade -related policies and the discussant’s 
overview on the updates to these policies.  
5.180.   China is an important and long standing  trading partner of Mongolia. The Government of 
Mongolia attaches great significance to further expanding the bilateral trade and economic 
cooperation within the framework of the comprehensive strategic partnership. The bilateral trade 
volume between the t wo countries has been growing in recent decades, reaching USD 8.8 billion in 
2019. However, the volume has decreased in 2020 by 16% over the previous year.  
5.181.   Mongolia is pleased to see China’s active and constructive role in the multilateral trading 
system. We are confident that the TPR meeting would provide good opportunity for China and her 
trading partners, including Mongolia, to assess the progress and impact of China’s trade policy on 
the functioning of the multilateral trading system. We highly apprecia te the efforts made by China 
in the implementation of the TFA.  
5.182.   As China has achieved significant progress in developing and building a new system of an 
open economy, pushing forward liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment, Mongolia 
underlin es that China’s initiative on achieving shared growth through discussion and collaboration 
of countries along the Belt and Road (BRI) has a significant potential to boost trade and economic 
cooperation between the relevant countries.  
5.183.   Mongolia expresses sin cere gratitude for China’s assistance  in the fight against the COVID -19 
pandemic and commends China’s economy’s strong recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic, which 
has heavily affected the world economy.  
5.184.   Mongolia would greatly appreciate if China could prov ide further information to the questions 
below:  
1. China is one of the largest transit countries on the territory of which the world’s largest ports 
are located. Given the experience gained during the pandemic, what lessons have been 
learned to prevent a situ ation where, for various reasons, ports are not able to use their 
capacity and thus creating disruptions in the global supply chain?  
2. The SPS provisions are applied equally to imported goods and goods in transit. What is 
China’s policy on improvement of rul es and procedures for goods in transit, in order to ensure 
the smooth and uninterrupted transit through border points in terms of SPS?  
3. How are the additional fees and charges imposed by the local provincial authorities 
consistent in line with the WTO rule s and regulations?  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 89 - 
 
  4. Could China provide detailed information on the paperless application procedures for imports 
and customs clearance for goods subject to non -automatic import licensing regime, including 
meat and dairy products? (para graph  3.6 of the WT/TP R/G/415)  
5. What are the expected economic expectations for China from joining the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement? (para graph  3.24 of the WT/TPR/G/415)  
6. Due to the COVID -19 pandemic, the LLDCs’ situation has worsened by border closures a nd 
sanitary measures imposed by countries across the world, and disruptions of transport 
networks have further revealed its dependence on the neighbouring  countries. Could China 
elaborate more on the policy arrangements to expedite and release transit good s to ensure 
its commitments to take down barriers in facilitating trade and transit transport? 
(para graphs  4.12 and  4.14 of the WT/TPR/G/415)  
7. Could China provide detailed information on the benefits for foreign enterprises under the 
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program me? (para graph  3.12 of the WT/TPR/S/415) . 
5.185.   We express appreciation to the delegation of China for the hard work in preparing for this 
TPR and wish a successful R eview.  
MYANMAR  
5.186.   Myanma r aligns itself with the ASEAN s tatement ma de by Permanent Representative of 
Brunei Darussalam.  
5.187.   My delegation would like to join  others in welcoming the China delegation led by 
H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister for Commerce of China.  
5.188.   Myanmar would also like to commend H.E. Mr. Li Chenggang, Permanent  Representative of 
China and his team for their hard work and appreciate the comprehensive remarks made by Her 
Excellency Madam Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Permanent Representative of South Africa to WTO.  
5.189.   Our appreciation also goes to the G overnment of China an d WTO Secretariat for the reports.  
5.190.   Myanmar and China are neighbours not only sharing a long border but also many affinities 
in our social, cultural and religious areas. We cherished and upheld our diplomatic relations since 
1950 and further strength ened o ur ties with mutual trust , friendliness and close cooperation.  
5.191.   For the expansion of trade and investments, both countries are cooperating under every 
possible area through bilateral, regional and multilateral fora such as the Joint Border Trade 
Coordinatin g and Cooperation Committee (JBTCCC), RCEP and WTO.  
5.192.   In terms of bilateral trade, both countries are experiencing the steady growth throughout 
the times,  but China is always in favour of Myanmar. According to the statistics from Myanmar, 
China is the top m ajor trading partner of Myanmar both in exports and imports.  
5.193.   Myanmar would like to commend China for its economic reforms which put the nation into 
new development stage and its new development paradigm to better connect the domestic and 
international mark ets. In this regard, according to World Bank Doing Business Report 2020, China 
is among the top ten economies with the greatest improvement in the global business environment 
for 2 consecutive years.  
5.194.   It is also noteworthy  that even in the time of COVID -19 and the global economic downturn, 
China has GDP increase of 2.3% in 2020 and created 11.86 million new jobs. In addition, the GDP 
growth rate of the People’s Republic of China is expected to reach 6.0% again in 2021.  
5.195.   According to the statistics from Myanm ar, up to September 2021, China is the 2nd largest 
investor in Myanmar constituting 23.85% of the total investments. Myanmar supports the 
investment projects under Belt and Road Initiatives to create new dynamics into the global industrial 
chains and suppl y chains.   
5.196.   China’s aim to expand international trade and investment in its Five -Year Plans can support 
the recovery of new economy and enhance global GDP since China is the major trading partner of 
more than 120 countries and the region.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 90 - 
 
  5.197.   Myanmar believes China as the strong supporter of multilateral trading system and would 
like to thank China for its contrib utions under South -South Cooperation Assistance Fund for 
developing members to implement their agendas according to UNSDG and China Programme in WTO 
to help developing members integrate into and benefit from multilateral trading system. In addition, 
Myanmar would like to express China’s preferential Tariff Treatment for LDC members to integrate 
into international trading system.  
5.198.   Before I conclude, I wou ld like to thank China not only for its donation of vaccines and 
medical products to Myanmar but also for selling the vaccines and sharing experience for prevention, 
control and fight against COVID -19. 
5.199.   I wish China every success in its 8th TPR process.  
PERU 
5.200.   First of all, I would like to convey Peru's greetings to H.E. Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce of China, and to extend these greetings to the entire Chinese delegation, in particular to 
the distinguished Ambassador Li, and to the members of his count ry's Mission in Geneva.  
5.201.   The delegation of Peru thanks Mr Wang for his presentation and Ambassador Mlumbi Peter 
for her valuable comments as discussant.  
5.202.   The context has changed significantly since China last undertook such a review. The 
challenges that inte rnational trade and the multilateral system faced then are more evident today, 
and cooperation efforts are therefore more urgently required.  
5.203.   In that regard, Peru welcomes China's renewed commitment to international trade and the 
task of making it fairer an d more inclusive, so that we can all reap the benefits for the development 
and prosperity of our peoples.  
5.204.   Let me briefly refer to Peru's trade relationship with China, our main trading partner.  
5.205.   For Peru, China is the main destination and origin of the good s it trades with the world, and 
our relationship is primarily based on Peruvian exports of minerals and Chinese exports of 
machinery, vehicles and equipment.  
5.206.   Our bilateral trade has been growing steadily over the past few years and has remained 
above US$ 20 billion, even in 2020, when our bilateral trade decreased by 5%, primarily due to the 
pandemic. It is our wish for this fruitful trade relationship to continue to strengthen and diversify in 
the years to come, given the announcement of the opening u p of China's trade.  
5.207.   This promising dynamism is accompanied by close political and cultural ties resulting from 
our longstanding bilateral relations dating back to the nineteenth century, cooperation and shared 
economic interests.  
5.208.   The importance of our econ omic relations is reflected in the Free Trade Agreement between 
Peru and China that has been in force since March 2010 and has set the stage for the development 
and growth of bilateral trade between the two countries.  
5.209.   I would like to note, in this connecti on, that China's investments in Peru are considerable, 
and cover a range of different sectors of our economy, such as mining and construction. My country 
is sure that China will continue in its efforts to ensure that its investments in Peru contribute to t he 
sustainable and environmentally friendly development to which my country aspires.  
5.210.   Peru notes and will follow with interest two points contained in the reports that form part of 
the present review. On the one hand, China's new policy to end subsidies for  fuel and shipbuilding, 
as well as to improve the prevention of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; and, on the other 
hand, the announced adjustment of China's energy mix, based primarily on the development of 
clean and low carbon energies.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 91 - 
 
  5.211.   Turnin g to the multilateral system, we appreciate that this Review has served as a framework 
for China to renew its commitment to the stability and soundness of the system, which can only be 
maintained and strengthened if all Members undertake to comply with the  obligations to which they 
have committed.  
5.212.   We welcome China's active role and efforts in this forum, and we are confident that it is 
ready to take on its role, in keeping with the size of its economy and its capacities, with the 
responsibilities that this entails within the international trading system.  
5.213.   We appreciate China's willingness to engage in dialogue and its notable participation in the 
negotiations on various aspects of this Organization's agenda. We therefore encourage China to 
maintain those effo rts over the coming months, which are crucial to ensuring that this year's 
Ministerial Conference has the substantive outcomes we are all seeking.  
5.214.   Having made these important points, it only remains for me to thank the Chinese delegation 
for this exercise,  and to wish it a successful Trade Policy Review.  
TUNISI A 
5.215.   My delegation is pleased to participate in the eighth Trade Policy Review of China, a major 
player in world trade, and welcomes the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr Wang Wentao, Minister 
of Commerc e of China. We would like to convey to him our appreciation for the exhaustive 
presentation on his country's economic situation and trade policy.  
5.216.   I also extend our congratulations to the Secretariat for its comprehensive report submitted 
for this Review and to the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Ms Mulumbi Peter, for her insightful 
comments.  
5.217.   My delegation would like to emphasize that the Chinese economy has continued to be a 
major driver of global growth over the review period. The positive GDP growth rate in 2020, during 
an unprecedented situation impacted by the pandemic, testifies to the strength of the Chinese 
economic system and its ability to adapt effectively to crises.  
5.218.   The structural development of the Chinese economy, which has moved away from agriculture 
and industry towards services, has largely facilitated this rapid adaptation and has also contributed 
to the remarkable progress that has been made in the fight against poverty in recent decades.  
5.219.   The pandemic has also been an opportunity for Ch ina to reaffirm its important contribution 
to global value chains, enabling it, in particular, to mitigate some of the shortages linked to the 
pandemic and the trade distortions that have occurred. We also thank the Chinese authorities for 
the solidarity t hey have shown by sharing vaccines and medical equipment.  
5.220.   In this regard, my country recognizes that China was one of the first friendly countries to 
participate in the solidarity effort that enabled Tunisia to emerge from a serious health crisis. We 
will work to institutionalize this cooperation with China as part of Tunisia's desire to make the most 
of its know -how and production capacities in the quest to increase the global production of vaccines.  
5.221.   We note, moreover, that the review period has shown in p articular the development of 
international investment by China, which has pursued an active policy of attracting local and foreign 
investment, but also of opening up to the world by increasing the number of agreements concluded 
with various partners. This demonstrates China's dominant role in the multilateral trading system 
and in regional trade agreements.  
5.222.   In this respect, China, a very active WTO member, could play a leading role in the conclusion 
of several agreements currently being negotiated, includin g electronic commerce and the 
sustainability of fisheries.  
5.223.   Furthermore, the efforts made by China as part of its industrial restructuring policy and the 
optimization of its energy structure to tackle climate change would be strengthened through more 
effect ive measures to reduce carbon emissions.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 92 - 
 
  5.224.   Tunisia and China have enjoyed diplomatic relations for almost 60 years and have a 
privileged relationship of friendship and trade, technical and financial cooperation.  
5.225.   Economic and trade cooperation is part of a mu tually beneficial and win -win partnership. 
China is thus involved in several major projects in Tunisia, and Tunisia benefits from a transfer of 
technology and related financial assistance.  
5.226.   The two countries are working closely together to promote the imple mentation of the 
outcomes of the 2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China African Cooperation.  
5.227.   Moreover, China, currently Tunisia's third largest source of imports, ranks first in terms of 
Tunisia's trade deficit. This deficit has continued to grow in rec ent years and accounts for 25% of 
the total deficit of the country's trade balance.  
5.228.   Tunisia remains determined to strengthen and consolidate its cooperation with China in all 
areas. It welcomes its willingness to accelerate the processes already under way,  obtain the 
necessary authorizations to market certain Tunisian agricultural and food products in China, such as 
cereals, vegetables, meat and seafood, and encourages the resulting increase in the number of 
Chinese tourists in Tunisia.  
5.229.   Finally, we congratu late H.E. Ambassador Chenggang, the Permanent Representative of 
China to the WTO, and his team for their active engagement in WTO work, and we wish China a very 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
NIGERIA  
5.230.   Nigeria congratulates the People’ s Republic of China on  their 8th Trade Policy Review. We 
welcome  the entire delegation of China  led by Minister of Commerce Mr. Wang. We also thank the 
discussant, H. E. M s. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Ambassador to WTO of South Africa for her insightful 
remarks. We thank the Chinese  Government and the Secretariat for their comprehensive reports 
during the period under review. We commend Ambassador Li  Chenggang of China to the WTO for 
his tireless efforts in coordinating the preparatory process of this review exercise and for his acti ve 
participation in the on going  WTO negotiations.  
5.231.   Since the last rev iew of China, we note from the S ecretariat report that the Chinese economy 
has been a crucial catalyst for g lobal growth. Remarkably, China’ s GDP per capita recorded a 
considerable increase in 2020. With the long -term structural changes in China’ s economy that 
witnessed a shift from agriculture and industry to services of which the services sector now 
contributes 55% to the GDP of China. It is worthy of note that the mar ket-oriented reforms and high 
GDP growth rate is responsible for the impressive progress of the country on poverty alleviation.  
5.232.   As with some economies, the Chinese economy experienced a significant decrease except 
for their financial services and the  information technology sector.  However, the country was noted 
to begin recovery by mid -2020 as a result of public investment and international trade.  
5.233.   China is one of Nigeria’ s closest trading partners and the relations between Nigeria and China 
have considerab ly expanded based on growing bilateral trade and strategic cooperation. This is 
evidenced by the two nations cooperation for ICT infrastructure backbone phase 11(NICTIB 11) 
Project. Furthermore, the belt and road initiative launched by mainland China is an  initiative which 
Nigeria officially joined in 2018 and it is intended to boost the infrastructural agreements between 
Nigeria and China and furthermore, improve connectivity and cooperation between Africa and other 
continents of the world.  
5.234.   It is commendable that China’ s underlying principle for all trade -related rules formulated by 
the authorities at all levels must be compliant with international trade agreements to which China is 
a party to. This shows China’ s commitment to its international obl igations including the Marrakech 
Agreement and its covered agreements.  
5.235.   We commend China for its active participation in the agriculture negotiations and we hope 
to continue to deepen our collaboration during the work of the committee and at various committ ees 
of the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 93 - 
 
  5.236.   We also commend China’ s active participation in the joint statement initiatives on electronic 
commerce, investment facilitation for development, MSMEs and domestic regulation in services of 
which Nigeria is a party. We shall continue to wor k closely with China in the various negotiations.  
5.237.   We particularly note China’ s commitment in creating a global network of RTAs including the 
recently signed regional comprehensive economic partnership Agreement towards consolidating 
economic and trade ties  with its trading  partners. This signifies China’ s commitment to promoting 
free trade.  
5.238.   On intellectual property, we urge China to increase its efforts in regulating IP within the 
country.  
5.239.   We are pleased to note that China continues to grant unilateral pref erences to least 
developed countries and have implemented zero tariffs on 97% of taxable items for LDCs. We also 
commend China’ s generous donations at the aid for trade. We would be pleased increased export of 
non-oil products from Nigeria to China in orde r to contribute to our development goals.  
5.240.   In conclusion, my delegation would continue to work closely with the delegation of China to 
deepen our bilateral relations. We also urge China to support the eff orts being put in place by WTO 
Members and show more flexibility where necessary to reach convergence in various WTO 
negotiation issues with a vi ew to achieving a successful MC 12 with fruitful outcomes.   
5.241.   We wish the People’ s Republic of China a successful 8th Trade Policy Review exercise.  
BOLIVARIAN  REPUBLI C OF VENEZUELA  
5.242.   The delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela would like to extend a warm welcome 
to the delegation of the People's Republic of China, led by Mr Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, 
which is with us today to show us the progress made by their country in economic, trade and social 
affairs since the last Trade Policy Review.  
5.243.   We would also like to thank the Ambassador of South Africa, Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi Peter, for 
her positive introductory remarks, which, together with the report presented  by the head of the 
Chinese delegation, made sure we properly understood the context. Our thanks are also extended 
to the Secretariat for their organization and documentation.  
5.244.   A special feature of this Trade Policy Review is that it is being held on the ev e of the tenth 
anniversary of China's accession to this Organization, which took place on 1 December 2001. In this 
regard, I am pleased to add the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the long list of Members that 
have recognized China as a strategic and re liable trading partner, while appreciating China's efforts 
to fulfil the commitments that it undertook when it acceded to the WTO. We appreciate its leadership 
in defending the original principles of this Organization, such as the principle of special and 
differential treatment for developing countries.  
5.245.   The bilateral cooperation links between China and Venezuela are solid and include a common 
destiny for development, which we continue to strengthen through the China Venezuela 
Comprehensive Strategic Partner ship and the mechanisms established by the Joint Commission, in 
order to continue working on "high flying and at all levels" cooperation on trade, health, space, 
communication, satellites, oil, energy, mining, finance, the military and culture.  
5.246.   We share co mmon political, economic and social visions, with the goal of ensuring maximum 
benefit for our peoples. Recalling the words of our President, Nicolás Maduro, the two nations are 
"more united than ever" in what we call an "indestructible brotherhood".  
5.247.   We ac knowledge China's full support for global cooperation in combating COVID 19. As 
rightly noted in the report submitted by China for the eighth Trade Policy Review for the period 
2018–2020 (document WT/TPR/G/415), China has made contributions to maintaining the stability 
of the global industrial chains and supply chains, and building a global health community for 
mankind. We highlight China's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) driven COVAX 
Facility, its commitment to donating a first batch o f 10 million doses of vaccines to developing WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 94 - 
 
  countries in urgent need, as well as vaccines donated to 85 developing Members, including 
Venezuela.  
5.248.   At the international level, we share the same ideals and defend common principles. In this 
regard, we oppose a ny hegemonic pretensions on the part of those who wish to undermine the 
sovereignty of States through the imposition of illegal and criminal unilateral coercive measures. 
Our foreign ministers, in the framework of the 76th United Nations General Assembly, reaffirmed 
their mutual rejection of coercive measures, interference in the internal affairs of States and the 
tendency towards unilateralism. The consequences of the implementation of this type of illegal and 
inhuman measures are recognized by the United Nations system itself and are condemned by the 
multilateral system. In the outcome document of the recent Fifteenth Session of the United Nations 
Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), States were once again urged to refrain from 
promulgating and im plementing any unilateral economic, financial or trade measures that are not in 
accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter, in the light of concerns about the 
restrictive nature and implications for development of such measures, which  have a negative impact 
on the well-being  of populations and can impede the full achievement of economic and social 
development in the States concerned, as well as harm their trade relations.  
5.249.   Another aspect that we would like to highlight in China is the B elt and Road initiative, through 
which the country promotes the principle of pursuing shared benefits through consultation and 
collaboration, promoting cooperation with all parties. In this regard, Venezuela has joined in various 
events, areas and sectors where this initiative is being rolled out, in the search for global balance in 
trade.  
5.250.   We appreciate China's level of commitment to South -South cooperation, with the objective 
of helping to make economic globalization more open, inclusive, balanced and bene ficial for all. We 
appreciate China's support for Venezuela's leadership in the Latin American and Caribbean region 
and are committed to advancing relations between China and Latin America and the Caribbean, 
through the Community of Latin American and Cari bbean States (CELAC) and the Bolivarian Alliance 
for the Peoples of Our America – Peoples' Trade Agreement (ALBA TCP), with a view to the success 
of the upcoming third meeting of the China CELAC Forum.  
5.251.   Before concluding, we would also like to congratulate Ambassador Li Chenggang, Permanent 
Representative of China to the WTO, on his efforts and contributions to the work of this Organization.  
5.252.   In wishing the People's Republic of China a successful Trade Policy Review, we wish to 
reaffirm our willingness to strengthen trade ties with the country, as well as our shared commitment 
to the establishment of a strong, fair and predictable multilateral trading system, based on solidarity 
and on common and transparent rules.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.253.   Let me start  by expressing our appreciation to the Chinese delegation for the replies to the 
EU's questions. China received over 2200 questions from 40 Members (up from 1900 in the last 
TPR); over 140 questions from the EU alone.  
5.254.   These numbers are an indicator of China’s increasing importance in the trading system. We 
heard during the discussion on Wednesday that China is the first or a major trading partner for many 
of the Members present in this R eview. China’s policies have an ever -increasing impact on all its 
partners and on the fabric and development of the trading system itself. A comprehensive 
understanding by the international community of China’s policies is therefore crucial.  
5.255.   We would also encourage China to provide complete and transparent rep lies, in order to 
further the goals of this review in a re sponsible and effective manner.  We hope that the follow -up 
questions that we have submitted on state -owned enterprises, export credits, subsidies, intellectual 
property, just to name a few areas, wi ll be answered in this spirit.  
5.256.   On the opening day, many Members shared the sentiment about the key role China’s WTO 
accession played in its very remarkable economic success. But we also heard many voices echo the 
same concerns the EU has – that the degree  to which China has reformed and opened up its markets WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 95 - 
 
  no longer correspond to the weight it has in the global economy and does not allow other Members 
comparable access to China’s markets.  
5.257.   In his opening s tatement, Minister Wang emphasiz ed China’s commit ment to a transparent, 
non-discriminatory, open and inclusive rules -based multilateral trading system. We share these 
values fully.  
5.258.   Minister Wang also underlined that China has been abiding by WTO rules and fulfilling its 
accession commitments.  
5.259.   For EU tra ders, and traders of several other Members who  have intervened on the first day, 
I have to comment that the reality on the ground  sometimes  feels different. Those int erventions 
pointed to some long standing concerns that remain. A level  playing field has no t been achi eved, 
notably due to pervasive S tate influence in the eco nomy, with concerns focus ed on the role of 
state-owned enterprises, the lack of transparency on industrial subsidies and domestic support, 
opaque regulations that facilitate discrimination  between domestic and foreign companies, or a lack 
of effective protection of intellectual property. The expansive use of an excessively broad concept of 
national security and its impact on foreign companies was another issue of concern. These are just 
some examples that not only prevent a fair competition between foreign and domestic businesses 
on China’s market, but also affect and generate distortions in global markets.  
5.260.   Many have also echoed worrying new trends that seem to go in the oppos ite direction o f 
liberali zation,  notably the increasing role of the S tate or the politiciz ation of the business 
environment.  
5.261.   In Minister Wang’s statement, we heard the promise that “China will open its door wider”, 
and this was reiterated by Vice  Minister Wang who said that China was “intensifying effo rts to create 
a market -oriented environment ” and  will turn China’s market into a “market that is accessible to 
all”. The European Union hopes that these words will transform into tangible actions that lead to the 
disma ntling of trade barriers and a fair access to China’s markets for our businesses.  
5.262.   We have noted the indication in China’s opening statement about “China’s willingness to 
approach special and differential treatment with pragmatism” and in a manner that is commensurate 
with its capacity. We believe that this should imply China not claiming special and differential 
treatment benefits in any ongoing negotiations.  
5.263.   We very much welcome China’s stated commitment to WTO reform, a process where the 
European Union s ees China as a key partner.  
5.264.   As affirmed on many occasions in the past, the European Union is committed to a credible 
and rules -based trading system and believes it is the essential foundation for the post -pandemic 
economic recovery. We need to ensure that  this trading system is able respond to modern challenges 
and provides a level playing field, as well as fair opportunities for sustainable growth to all of its 
Members.  
5.265.   The European Union calls on China to contribute to this process, both by observing it s 
accession commitments and all its WTO obligations in law and in spirit, as well as by contributing 
constructively to a collective effort to reform the multilateral trading system.  
5.266.   In concluding, I would like very much to express once more the EU's appre ciation to the 
whole delegation of China for their participation and their valuable contributions to this Review of 
China which we have welcomed.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.267.   Today we would like to make a few observations in light of the discussions that took place 
on We dnesday  and today , and then we will explain the concerns that underlie some of our more 
important follow -up questions, which we submitted earlier today.  
5.268.   As we listened on Wednesday  and today , we heard one overarching theme from a large 
number of Members.  Looking back over the twenty years since China’s accession to the WTO, these WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 96 - 
 
  Members noted that China and its economy have greatly benefited from China’s WTO Membership, 
but China has not taken the anticipated steps to transform its state -led, non -market ap proach to 
trade and the economy. These Members therefore called once again for China to embrace open, 
market -oriented policies.  
5.269.   We also heard Members identify a number of specific problems with China’s trade regime.  
These problems included:  
• Industrial pol icies that skew the playing field against the foreign competition and create 
systemic problems for global trade;  
• Severe and persistent excess capacity, especially in the steel and aluminum sectors;  
• Preferential treatment for state -owned e nterprises that co ntributes to the un -level playing 
field for the foreign competition;  
• Forced technology transfer;  
• Inadequate enforcement of intellectual property rights;  
• Restrictions on foreign investment in key sectors;  
• Inadequate regulatory transparency;  
• An overly broad  cybersecurity regime that seems designed to serve protectionist purposes;  
• Cross -border data restrictions and data localization requirements;  
• China’s use of forced labour  in several sectors;  
• China’s use of its Anti -Monopoly Law for industrial policy purposes; and  
• A variety of problematic sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures.  
5.270.   That is a very long list of problems that have been identified with China’s trade regime, and 
all of these problems are serious ones.   
5.271.   We hold out hope that China will take  the initiative to address each of these problems.  
5.272.   We note, however, that almost all of these same problems were identified during China’s 
Trade Policy Review thre e years ago, yet they persist.  
5.273.   On Wednesday  and today , we also heard Members raise concerns a bout China’s approach 
here at the WTO.   
5.274.   Several Members urged China to take on responsibilities at the WTO commensurate with its 
economic weight and its stature as one of the world’s largest traders, including by refraining from 
claiming benefits that would correspond to a developing country in ongoing ne gotiations.  
5.275.   Consistent with the Secretariat’s report, many Members also raised concerns about China’s 
inadequate adherence t o its transparency obligations.  In this regard, these Members drew special 
attention to China’s poor record of submitting timely and complete WTO notifications, especially in 
the areas of industrial subsidies,  state trading,  agricultural domestic support and fisheries subsidies.  
5.276.   The United States fully supports these sentiments.  
5.277.   Finally, let me highlight some of our follow -up questions.  
5.278.   We have asked several follow -up questions about China’s prolific use of government 
guidance funds as a means to provide massive financial  support to Chinese industries.  The 
Secretariat  repor t also hig hlighted this issue. China’s brief response to numerous U.S. questions 
about these government guidance f unds was simply to say that the State has no role in them. We 
note that China’s response appears to be inconsistent with publicly available information,  and it is 
also not responsive to most of the questions asked by the United States.  
5.279.   We have also asked a number of follow -up questions relating to the fisheries sector, including 
with regard to subsidies, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishi ng and distant water fishing.  
5.280.   Our remaining follow -up questions concern a variety of topics, including the Made in China 
2025 industrial plan, excess capacity, state -owned enterprises, export credits, value -added tax 
export rebates, export duties, recycling ma terials, SPS measures, China’s Foreign Investment 
Negative List, services market access and the Belt and Road Initiative, among other topics.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 97 - 
 
  5.281.   We look forward to China’s responses to all of these follow -up questions.  That conclude our 
comments.  
JAPAN  
5.282.   First of all, we would like to express our appreciation for the replies to our advance written 
questions, and for the dedicated efforts made by the Chinese delegation headed by H.E. Mr. Wang 
Wentao and the insightful comments and remarks made by the discussant,  Ambassador 
Mlumbi -Peter.  
5.283.   On Wednesday and today, the Members discussed many observations and requests, 
including those on S&DT, transparency, market  distorting measures, SOEs, and cross -border data 
flow. We appreciate the opportunity provided by this TPR to deepen exchanges over our issues and 
concerns with regard to China’s trade policies and practices. Many of the issues highlighted by the 
Members need to be further clarified or more concretely addressed. We expect China, as the world’s 
largest trading p artner and a responsible major economy, to sincerely address the Members’ 
comments and to fully avail of this chance to effect positive change.  
5.284.   This morning, we submitted additional questions on matters, on which we believe China’s 
answers are not yet adeq uately clear or sufficient. We look forward to receiving lucid and sincere 
responses to our questions from China.  
CHILE  
5.285.   Thank you, Chair, for giving us the opportunity to make this second statement at this Trade 
Policy Review of China.  
5.286.   Unfortunately, I was unable to be present at Wednesday's session, as I was chairing the 
negotiations on investment facilitation for development. I just wanted to thank China today for its 
commitment to this important joint initiative, which brings together  the largest number of WTO 
Members. China's leadership, and especially its role as coordinator of the Friends of Investment 
Facilitation for Development group, has been key to moving this process forward in a sustained 
manner with concrete results, which p articipants hope to present to ministers at the end of 
November in the form of a text "as clean as possible". As coordinator of the initiative, I would like 
to personally thank Ambassador Li for his involvement in the negotiations and his efforts to bring in 
new participants. Thank you very much Chenggang.  
5.287.   I also take this opportunity to highlight China's important role in the Asia Pacific Cooperation 
Forum (APEC). We share interests on the goals of the forum and on the vision for the next decade. 
During our APEC Year in 2019, China supported all our priorit ies: connectivity, the digital economy, 
inclusive development, women and SMEs and sustainable development. During the meeting of APEC 
Ministers Responsible for Trade in 2019, Ambassador Li, as head of delegation, was an important 
player in achieving the fi rst consensual ministerial statement after many years, with strong support 
for the multilateral trading system based on non-discriminatory  rules. Today, we are working with 
China in APEC on issues such as smart cities, trade inclusiveness and the single wi ndow action plan. 
China also leads the Trade in Value Added pillar of our BluePrint 2.0 and two Chilean ports have 
joined the China APEC e port model network initiative, to name a few joint projects.  
5.288.   As we noted on Wednesday, we wish China every success in  this new Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
5.289.   I will start by thanking you, Madam Chair, and our distinguished discussant for your roles in 
enabling this Trade Policy Review. But also let me thank Vice Minister after his comments this 
morning and indeed th e Chinese delegation for their approach to this TPR, for their replies given to 
the written questions. I think that from over 2000 advance written questions , 150 initial ones were 
from the United Kingdom and we submitted some more overnight, just to keep o ur Chinese 
colleagues busy.  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 98 - 
 
  5.290.   As others have said, the high number of questions that we all asked reflect China’s key role 
within this Organization and the scale of the Chinese economy within the global economy. Its trading 
practices clearly have a marked im pact on that global trading system.  
5.291.   In the two opening  statements on Wednesday, we heard that China is a major trading partner 
for more than 120 countries. Addressing the concerns that have been raised in this trade policy 
review would  be very widely welco med across the WTO Membership.  
5.292.   The Minister also stated in his statement on Wednesday that China takes this TPR very 
seriously. China’s colleagues have made several recurring themes in the statements delivered on 
Wednesday and again this morning. Concerns,  for example, like transparency, about the use of 
market distorting practices, as well as the targeting of the goods of some countries for what appears 
to be political reasons.  
5.293.   The issue here, I think, is not about China’s stated intention to work with Me mbers, it’s about 
China’s ability to demonstrate through its actions its commitment to those WTO principles and to 
increase the transparency in its processes. It is about deeds  not words. This would, we believe, 
increase international confidence and be to the benefit of both China and the precious shared 
international trading system. And we trust that our Chinese partners will reflect  on what they have 
heard over the last couple of days and do more to address the concerns raised.  
5.294.   Our own expectation is that  China will follow through on the statements it has made here 
and implement its commitment in a transparent manner. Like many other Members of this 
Organization we will continue to monitor closely the trajectory of China’s economic reforms and 
particularly  the real world impact of those reforms on British firms operating in China and those 
British firms partnering with or indeed competing with Chinese firms.  
5.295.   We look forward to also engaging with China bilaterally once this Review is complete. And 
finally , I would like to express my thanks, once again, to the whole China’s delegation here and in 
Beijing for their contributions to this eighth Trade Policy Review in this very historic 20th year 
following their accession.  
AUSTRALIA  
5.296.   Thank you , Ambassador M olokomme , and thank  also to  friends , Ambassadors Chenggang 
and Mlumbi -Peter for your able management of these important proceedings, and, of course, Vice 
Minister Wang Shouwen’s  presence here today, virtually.  
5.297.   As Simon and Xolelwa  have just s aid, the high lev el of engagement in this Review  reflects 
the importance of China in the multilateral trading system. It also underlines China’s commensurate 
level of responsibility to support the rules -based order on which we all rely.  
5.298.   Minister Wang Went ao on Wednesday referenced the need to safeguard a rules-based 
multilateral trading system that is transparent, non -discriminatory, open and inclusive. Australia 
encourages China to give full effect  to that vision.  
5.299.   We note the wide range of concerns raise d by Members during the meeting, including in 
relation to state -owned enterprises, non -market policies and practices, problematic sanitary and 
phytosanitary measures, market distorting subsidies, inadequate transparency, and investment 
restrictions.  
5.300.   We not e Vice  Minister Wang Shouwen's comments just now about elements of our statement 
on Wednesday. We stand fully by that statement.  
5.301.   Members have clearly called during this Review for China, the world’s second largest 
economy, to do more to fully align its pra ctices with its WTO obligations . Australia encourages China 
to adhere to all rules and not just claim to do so.  
5.302.   While Australia welcomed China’s stated  commitment to transparency, the answers received 
from China to our questions unfortunately did not allev iate our key concerns on China’s trade 
practices. Australia has submitted a number of follow -up questions to the Secretariat in order to WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 99 - 
 
  seek additional information. We urge China to reflect on all the messages delivered during this Trade 
Policy R eview, bo th positive and negative , and to ac t and  constructively address the genuine 
concerns expressed by Members in the spirit of the TPR process.  
5.303.   Australia looks forward to China’s responses to our follow -up questions and to work ing 
cooperatively with China in a lead -up to MC12  towards our shared goals.  
PAKISTAN  
5.304.   Pakistan would like to take this opportunity to once again appreciate the Chinese government 
for their continued commitment to the multilateral rules -based trading system, fo r their rapid reform 
and economic progress achieved in the face of enormous challenges and adversity. China has indeed 
shown how the largest population in the world can be lifted out of poverty in record time, how a 
large economy can be structurally transf ormed while integrating globally, to achieve most 
competitive levels in the world.  
5.305.   As a developing country with a large population, Pakistan is fully cognizant of the huge task 
that comprehensive and sustainable development entails, particularly when coun tries like ours are 
only trying to catch up with the world. Indeed, development in a country is a process of complete 
structural transformation which requires balancing the rising demands of unemployment, social 
cohesion, political uncertainty, severe budg etary constraints, and technological challenges coupled 
with low productive capacities, against the constraining global requirements of policy reform, 
requirements for relinquishment of policy tools, heightened transparency, and uniformity of policy 
approa ches. For a large country like China, this balance also needs to run in tandem with the 
responsibility to maintain stability in the region, face myopic, destabilizing policies of some partners, 
while contributing towards global prosperity and in taking alo ng other developing countries. Such 
delicate balances and demands require the use of all policy approaches and tools available to a 
government according to the needs and demands at any particular moment, that would achieve 
those aims, of long -term sustaina ble development.  
5.306.   Who would know this better than today’s developed countries who have all gone through 
these processes and met those challenges following their own unique methods. Fortunately, for 
today’s advanced countries, during their ascent on the deve lopment ladder, their challenges were 
considerably limited as they had the freedom to experiment with policies without any prescriptions 
or demands to follow only one, uniform economic model. As a result, today’s advanced countries 
had the policy space to maneuver their policies as they wished, and to continue to shape them at 
every stage of their development for as long as it took to achieve their legitimate objectives, without 
strict deadlines.  
5.307.   Indeed, this is the reason that this august institution has enshrined the concept of special 
and differential treatment for developing countries in its rules and  has refrained from dictating any 
particular economic model to any developing country.  
5.308.   It is d isappointing Chair, that even today, while criticizing members for using certain policy 
tools, certain developed countries when themselves confronted with challenges often resort to the 
same policies without a second thought. Unjustifiably large subsidies for agriculture or fisheries, 
heavy bail -out packages for industries, tightly controlled labor mobility to protect employment, state 
funded development and thereafter hoarding of vaccines during arguably the worst global pandemic, 
are only a few examples.  
5.309.   For developing countries, China’s exceptional development story cannot, but be appreciated. 
No country has been able to raise the living standards of so many people in such a short time. This 
includes not just China’s own people but through the novel conc ept of ‘shared prosperity’, the 
fostering of development in other countries. Through its initiative of connectivity in the region, it has 
shown “trade for peace”  can be translated into success for everyone involved. Through its adoption, 
development and sh aring of newer, greener, and digital technologies China has shown its 
commitment to overcoming new global challenges.  
5.310.   China has promoted a model of South -South cooperation which shows considerable promise 
for developing and least developed countries, as it  is based on the shared development objective. 
The key difference shown by China is the readiness to share technology and technical know -how, WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 100 - 
 
  the ability to form joint -ventures to transfer technology and develop skills and contribute to 
productive capaciti es in other developing countries. The COVID  pandemic overlapping with China’s 
current review period has brought this approach to centre stage, where China has not only developed 
and donated vaccines but also readily partnered with countries like ours in cr ucial research and 
development, manufacturing and distribution exercises to enhance production and share technical 
know -how.  
5.311.   This gives promise to developing countries for their future that they need not languish in 
poverty with straitjacketed policy appr oaches and models seeking only a top -down prescription to 
follow. We wish China all the best on its developmental path, and most importantly we remain 
confident that China, once developed will not kick away the development ladder after climbing it, 
and wil l not call on developing countries to abandon their legitimate policy objectives or relinquish 
development goals.  
5.312.   After all, the prime task of governments is to make lives better for their people and make 
countries better for them to live  in. We appreciate  the Chinese G overnment for achieving this in an 
exemplary manner.  
5.313.   The WTO remains an institution for all. It must allow a chance to developing countries to 
pursue their objectives according to their peculiar circumstances and integrate at their own pace. 
The need for policy space and diversity in economic models must be recognized, and their objectives 
must be supported. Therefore, at the 20th anniversary of China’s accession to the WTO, Members 
should find ways to advance support to China’s progress as an effort in collective prosperity.  
Anything but support to China’s progress can only have wider consequences for the global economy.  
INDIA  
5.314.   In our opening statement on the 20th of October . we have raised several concerns and 
questions with respect to our trade with China. We heard similar concerns on the trade restrictive  
practices of China from other Members as well.  
5.315.   We have also received the replies to our advance written questions which are still being 
reviewed by my Capital in detail. However, a preliminary reading of the replies provided by China 
reveal that the repl ies are weak and don’t address our concerns and questions. Therefore, today 
morning we have provided certain additional questions to China for response , and we hope they will 
provide clear replies to them in a sincere and transparent manner.  
5.316.   We also heard from the Vice  Minister earlier today morning that China would like to see more 
exports from India. We thank him for that and we hope that the Chinese policies will allow that to 
happen.  
5.317.   We, once again, thank the Chinese delegation for their engagemen t in t his transparency 
exercise . 
H.E.  MR. WANG  SHOUWEN,  VICE  MINISTER  OF COMMERCE  AND  DEPUTY  CHINA  INTERNATIONAL  
TRADE  REPRESENTATIVE  
5.318.   I wish to thank the 8 representatives from the WTO Members who have just spoken. I 
particularly wish to thank Chile, the Ambassador from Chile, for his role in the negotiations on 
investment facilitation. I would like to make the following remarks in response to some of the 
statements made by the 8 speakers.  
5.319.   Firstly, with regard to the interpretation of Minister Wang Wentao’ s statement in relation to 
China’s position concerning special and differential treatment, I think it is advisable that the 
Minister’s statement be interpreted as it is, to the letter and to the spirit. I think any interpretation 
which does not conform to the intention of the Minister would not be helpful.  
5.320.   Secondly, I want to say that , if China indeed had imposed unreasonable restrictions, SPS or 
otherwise on imports, China’s imports would not have grown by such big margins over the years to 
become the numb er 2 importer in the world. The same is true of foreign direct investment. Had 
China restricted foreign investment for various and unjustified reasons, China’s attraction of foreign WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 101 - 
 
  direct investment would not have grown 5% last year amidst 40% of decline in global flow of FDI 
last year. Had China been an economy in which there is no transparency, in which there is no proper 
protection of intellectual property rights, in which there is a widespread overcapacity in various 
industries, and in which the State leads the economy without market forces playing a role, China’s 
economy would have already fallen apart, would have already collapsed. China would not be able to 
grow as it has grown. China would not have been able to lift hundreds of millions of people ou t of 
poverty.  
5.321.   The third point I wish to make is that China has fully implemented its WTO obligations. In 
case of any WTO obligation violation, we would be ready to accept any ruling, as I said before, 
favorable or adverse to China made by the WTO Dispute S ettlement Mechanism. And China has a 
good track record to implement those rulings.  
5.322.   A moment ago, a Member representative mentioned investment restrictions. He also 
mentioned cross border data flow. He also mentioned cyber security. Indeed, it is reasonable  for 
WTO Members to expect China to implement WTO rules . It is, I think, also reasonable not to expect 
China to implement rules in the WTO context which are not provided for in the WTO agreements.  
5.323.   Finally, Madam Chair, Colleagues, as we are approaching to the end of the eighth Trade 
Policy Review of China, I wish to thank Ambassador Molokomme for your leadershipand for your 
remarks. I also want to thank Ambassador Mlumbi -Peter for leading these discussions. Particularly, 
we wish to thank the Secretariat for  their meritorious efforts and hard work in the preparation of 
this Trade Policy Review. I also want to express our gratitude to all Members who have expressed 
their remarks in recognizing China’s efforts, in supporting China’s efforts or attention to Chin a's 
efforts. As Ambassador from Australia mentioned, whether these remarks are negative or positive, 
we have taken note of them and I want to thank you for those remarks.  
5.324.   WTO Members are now overcoming the difficulties posed by the pandemic, and the 
impor tance China has attached to this Trade Policy Review itself indicates China’s commitment to 
the multilateral trading system . It indicates China’s commitment to the three pillars of the WTO 
system. I want to share with you that many people from 62 governmen t ministries and agencies 
have participated in this exercise over the last few months. And this, again, indicates China’s 
commitment to the TPR in particular, and to the WTO system in general.  
5.325.   As I just said, we will take very seriously the remarks made by  all WTO Members who have 
spoken during this review process and we will study these remarks, and we will, of course, reflect 
on your concerns. And I can assure you that we will be working very hard to give response to your 
questions raised later than Octob er the 6th and we will give you those responses in one -month time.  
5.326.   I do not have sufficient time and I do not intend to address all the questions in the remarks 
made by the 8 speakers, and I am looking forward to having further discussions with you on thos e 
issues and many other issues.  
5.327.   I want to reiterate that China is committed to the open policy  which is win -win and mutually 
beneficial. We wish to make China’s development  the opportunity to be shared by all nations in the 
world and we will continue to wo rk very hard to safeguard the authority and efficacy of the 
multilateral trading system. At a time when the multilateral trading system is facing unprecedented 
challenges, in the midst of the global pandemic, China is willing to work with all WTO Members a fter 
this Review to make MC12 a success so that we could make a humble contribution to the construction 
of a shared future for mankind. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.  
  WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 102 - 
 
  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This eighth Trade Policy Review of China has indeed allowed us to better understand the 
important developments in the economic, trade and investment regime of China over the last 
three  years. I would like to thank the Chinese delegation headed by Mr. Wang  Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce, for their very active participation and engagement in this exercise.  
6.2.  I would also like to thank our discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa  Mlumbi -Peter, Permanent 
Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the WTO, for her rem arks and insightful words that 
have propelled these discussions, as well as the 65  delegations which took the floor during this 
meeting.  
6.3.  Members commended China for its overall solid economic performance during the review period 
and noticed that the Chinese economy had continued to be a major driver of global economic growth. 
They noted that the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic had a major impact on China's output and 
employment in 2020, but underlined that China's economy had shown remarkable resili ence in the 
wake of the health crisis.  
6.4.  Many Members stressed that rapid economic development, induced by market -oriented 
reforms, had lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and provided a high level of 
prosperity to many of China's citizens.  
6.5.  Recalling that 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of China's WTO accession, Members praised its 
active participation in, and commitment to, the WTO. They appreciated China's role in trade 
negotiations and as a major contributor to the multilateral  trading sy stem. In particular, Members 
welcomed its constructive participation in the Joint Statement Initiatives and plurilateral discussions.  
6.6.  Noting that China benefited enormously from the multilateral trading system, some Members 
urged it to assume more respons ibility commensurate to its trade weight to uphold and defend WTO 
principles. Many Members also recognized China's participation in regional integration and took note 
of its growing network of free  trade agreements.  
6.7.  Members welcomed China's stated commitm ent to continued trade liberalization. With regard 
to tariffs, Members applauded China for unilaterally reducing MFN applied tariffs on a wide range of 
products and for providing preferential tariff treatment to LDCs. China was encouraged to continue 
tariff liberalization initiatives, particularly on agricultural products where tariffs were considered to 
be still relatively high.  
6.8.  It was also widely commended for its various other measures to facilitate trade and reduce 
overall customs clearance times as we ll as for fully implementing the WTO's Trade Facilitation 
Agreement ahead of schedule. China was encouraged to continue these reforms, to reduce 
disruptions still being encountered as well as to facilitate trade in agricultural and perishable 
products.  
6.9.  On investment, Members recognized China's steps to create a more attractive investment 
environment and welcomed recent liberalization in financial services and the negative list approach 
China had begun to adopt. China was encouraged to further streamline adm inistrative measures for 
foreign investors and relax the remaining restrictions on foreign participation. However, various 
Members indicated that foreign companies established in China still reported significant issues 
relating to unequal treatment with lo cal companies, inconsistent application of regulations, hidden 
subsidies, and business environment that was perceived as increasingly politicized.  
6.10.   Many Members showed appreciation for China's support given to developing and 
least-developed countries. In th is context, China was commended for the delivery of COVID -19 
vaccines, for providing preferential tariff treatment to LDCs, for its ongoing participation in the Aid 
for Trade Initiative, and for its overall engagement in South -South cooperation.  
6.11.   For many M embers, the lack of transparency with regard to China's state measures was an 
issue of fundamental concern. Members noted a generally opaque subsidy regime and the lack of 
timely notifications on key issues such as state  trading enterprises and domestic su pport and WT/TPR/M/415 • China  
 
- 103 - 
 
  encouraged China to submit these notifications. Members underlined that transparency was a 
fundamental WTO principle and urged China to fully comply with its transparency commitments.  
6.12.   The role of state -owned enterprises was also an issue of inter est; many Members highlighted 
the importance of SOEs in China's economy and expressed concerns about implicit support to SOEs 
and distortions created by them. In this context, Members recalled China's accession commitments 
and urged it to speed up reforms and fully embrace market -oriented policies.  
6.13.   Members expressed support for China's efforts to promote the use of clean energy and the 
recent establishment of a carbon emission trading system, with a view to decarbonizing its economy. 
They congratulated Chin a for this step and were interested in more details on the actions it would 
be taking to achieve its 2030 and 2060 emission targets.  
6.14.   Several Members raised concerns about China's SPS regime, including that emergency 
measures taken in the context of the COV ID-19 pandemic were without scientific justification and 
that new regulations to be introduced on overseas producers of imported food were unclear and 
potentially trade restrictive. China was asked to review these regulations or delay their 
implementation dates to allow businesses sufficient time for compliance. China was encouraged to 
ensure its SPS measures are transparent and do not arbitrarily block imports.  
6.15.   Some Members also voiced concerns over a general increase in non -transparent and 
discriminatory measures and practices in China, sometimes in response to political disagreements 
with other trading partners. They urged China to take measures to end non -transparent and 
discriminatory measures.  
6.16.   Other issues of concern for some Members included: continu ously insufficient IPR protection, 
laws and regulations related to cybersecurity and data management, a very wide definition of 
national security, insufficient measures to address steel overcapacity, and the use of forced labour 
in China's economy.  
6.17.   With re spect to fisheries, Members were encouraged by China's recent initiatives, including 
the termination of its own subsidy programmes as well as its indication that it will not seek full 
special and differential treatment in negotiations on fisheries subsidie s. China's intention to crack 
down on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing was also welcomed and China was asked to 
ensure its controls are effective.  
6.18.   China received a very high number of written questions, more than 1'600, and has provided 
timely r eplies to nearly all of them, of which Members were highly appreciative. This TPR will be 
successfully concluded once replies to any outstanding and follow -up questions are received in one 
month's time. The large number of questions and active engagement b y over 60  delegations is 
testament to the importance of China to the multilateral trading system.  
6.19.   The Trade Policy Review Mechanism indeed has an important role for engendering constructive 
dialogue among Members and in increasing transparency. May I then  add my word of congratulations 
to China on the successful conclusion of its eighth Trade Policy Review and thank all the delegations 
for their cooperation and assistance.  
__________