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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
CHINA 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 20 AND 22 OCTOBER 2021  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 12 November 2021 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
CHINE 
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 20 ET 22 OCTOBRE 2021  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 12 novembre  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
CHINA 
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 20 Y 22 DE OCTUBRE DE 2021  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 12 de noviembre de 2021  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
CHINA 
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA  ................................ ........  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ .............  11 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ .......................  15 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ...........  76 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  105  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS 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. Ambassador Li Chenggang, Per manent 
Representative of China to the WTO; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador  Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (South Africa).  
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interpre fy 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 proce dures for the 
meeting. The report by China is contained in document WT/TPR/G/415, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/415.  
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Viet Nam; Australia; Pakistan;  Russian Federation; Switzerland; North Macedonia; Israel; Thailand; 
Hong Kong, China; Brazil; Japan; Argentina; Singapore; Costa Rica; Oman; Norway; United States; 
Mexico; Colombia; Ukraine; El Salvador; Canada; 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 WTO Members, 
and as an increasingly important play er 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. T he 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 beginning 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 the 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 reform 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 compl ying 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 transparenc y. Some of these issues had been 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 tariffs 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 regi me including 
the amendment of various IP legislation. Furthermore, reform of state -owned enterprises proceeded 
in the context of mixed ownership reform.  
1.12.   A survey of advance written questions submitted for this Review showed the wide range of 
topics of int erest to Members regarding China's trade and investment regimes. Many questions were WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  raised concerning transparency, the role of state -owned enterprises in the economy, incentives and 
subsidies, SPS measures, government procurement, competition policy, and  intellectual property.  
1.13.   China received around 1,600 advance written questions from 40 Members for this Review, 
out 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 the two -day meeting.  
1.14.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
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.  
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA (MR.  WANG WENTAO)  
2.1.  It gives me great pleasure to attend the eighth Trade Policy Review of Chin a via video link. I'd 
like to thank Chair Molokomme and the Secretariat for your preparation, and 
Ambassador  Mlumbi -Peter for serving as the discussant for the Review. I appreciate all the other 
Members' engagement in the Review.  
2.2.  The Chinese Government tak es 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 colleagues 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 state policy of opening -up. China has, on many occasions, c alled upon all sides to defend 
the multilateral trading system and build an open world economy. Since the last Review, China has 
stayed committed to deepening reform, expanding opening -up and growing its open economy at a 
higher level. China has worked wit h other WTO Members 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 Chinese 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 pursu es 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 opportunities for the 
world and made remarkable contribution t o the global economy.  
2.6.  First, offering a broad market for the world. China is a major 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 t otalled 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 imported 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 for foreign investment and building a market -oriented, 
law-based bu siness 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 quart ers 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 robust development. According to the 
Chinese statistics, U.S. compani es 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  2.8.  Third, promoting mutually beneficial and win -win outcomes of higher quality. Upholding the 
principle of extensiv e 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 taxe s 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 devel oping 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 advance 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 Partner ship (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 community of health 
for all. China has provided more than 100 countries and International Organizati ons 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 intellectual 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 abiding 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. Besides, 
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 supporter for, active participant in, and major 
contributor to the multilateral trading system, Chin a 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 grave challenges, China urges all Members 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 buil ding 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 authority of the multilateral trading system, and defending the 
development rights, interes ts and space of developing Members. In keeping with the principle of 
balanced rights and obligations, China is willing to approach special and differential treatment with 
pragmatism and make more contribution within the WTO that is commensurate with its ca pacity.  
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 greater 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, MSMEs, 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 development. Presi dent WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  Xi Jinping has reiterated on many occasions that the new development paradigm entails more open 
domestic and international circulations rather than a closed domestic one. China will open its door 
wider and all other countries are welcome to share in C hina's enormous market and development 
opportunities. We will follow through with the Global Development Initiative proposed by President 
Xi Jinping for more robust, greener and more balanced global development.  
2.16.   Madame 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 period and 
China's participation in the work of the WTO. Thank you.  
H.E.  MR. WANG  SHOUWEN,  VICE  MINISTER  OF COMMERCE  AND  DEPUTY  CHINA  INTERNATIONAL  
TRADE  REPRESENTATIVE  
2.17.   This is my fourth time to have participated in the Trade Policy Review of China. Each time, 
the Review has left with me a profound impression. I would like to thank all Members and the 
Secretariat for the atten tion they have given in this regard. Insofar, China 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 m onth 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 and deeper in level. Since 
last Review, China has taken a range of pro active 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 trade in goods. The import duties have been 
consecutively reduced by a big margin in a vo luntary way. Since November 2018, China has lowered 
the tariff rates on 1,585 tariff lines covering mechanical and electrical equipment, etc. Each year 
since 2019, China applied interim import tariff rates to over 700 items of goods, which are lower 
than t he 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 rate 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 provisions of the TFA. In June this year, China's overall customs clearance 
time for imported goo ds 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 market 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 formulate 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 edition 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 foreig n banks setting up branches in China and the operating time 
requirement for establishing foreign insurance institutions in China have been removed. The first 
foreign wholly -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 fre e 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 P ort and 
tabled the Negative List for Foreign Investment Access in Hainan Free Trade Port (with only 
27 special administrative measures). China has also implemented the first negative list for 
cross-border trade in services in Hainan Free Trade Port.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 respectively. 
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 neg otiating 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 opening 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 2021, 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 countries and regions to 
look for opportunities of trade and investment in China. China has a lso 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% compared with that of the previous year.  
2.25.   China has created a favourable business environme nt 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. The 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 prohibi ted. China 
also had discussions with foreign -invested enterprises from the U.S., EU, Japan, Republic of Korea, 
the United Kingdom and other countries to help them overcome the difficulties in doing business in 
China particularly 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 reform. China actively 
fosters a new development paradigm with d omestic 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 
innov ative, 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 5 00 million tonnes 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 tonnes of crude steel production capacity and the utilization 
rate in that cap acity returned to an appropriate range of over 80%. The capacity utilization rate of 
the aluminum industry was above 85%. In July this year, a national carbon emission trading market 
was officially launched in China. China has also promoted the endeavour o f 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 l aws 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 
intellectual property courts in four cities including Beijing, and int ellectual 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 t he 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  2.29.   With regard to invigorating market entities, China issued the Regulation on Improving the 
Business Environment i n 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 the binding force of the fair 
competition review system. Meanw hile, 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 ownersh ip 
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 refor m 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 reached 
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 Appellate 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 discussions 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 response to the pandemic. China 
co-sponsored the Trade and Health Initiative and act ively participated in the informal dialogue on 
plastics pollution and environmentally sustainable plastics trade. China also joined discussions on 
issues such as women's economic empowerment and trade and environment. China is currently 
pooling efforts wit h 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 provi ncial 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 q uantitative 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 wit hin our capacity. China accords zero tariff treatment on 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 Coope ration 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 framework of "China Programme" 
will be held by the end of this year. Chin a 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 
economic 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 economic governance 
system.  
2.36.   On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Chi na'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 market to be shared by all, and a market accessible to all. China 
stands read y 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 discussant and other Members. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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; dis tinguished 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 acc ession 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 i n 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 Review, it has continued to diversify its economy away from 
agriculture and indu stry towards services, with services making up approximately 55% of GDP.  
3.4.  The outbreak of the COVID ‑19 pandemic had a major impact on China'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 crisis based on their pre -COVID -19 strengths and 
weaknesses. As such, swift fiscal and monetary policy measures implemente d 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 of 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 poverty. 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 ju st 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 between the richest and the poorest remains significant. This raises the need to 
discuss how international trade can cont ribute to common challenges we face, including rising 
inequality both within and between countries and in the context of the pandemic, rising 
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 financial stability 
risks increased.2 According to the IMF, these risks include a strong increase in private secto r debt.  
Trade  
3.8.  China's trade policy objectives have remained largely unchanged since the previous Review. 
China seeks to further liberalize its trade and investment regime to reshape its economy as it 
implements the 14th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Soci al 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 Report for the 2020 Article  IV Consultation , IMF Country 
Report No.  21/6.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 restricti ons on the investment quota 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 all 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 agricult ure 
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 largest importer of goods for 
12 consecutive years and accou nted for 11.5% of global imports 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 e xpand 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 regard, 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 develope d 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 L DCs 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. Currently, there are 12 ongoing 
negotiations for n ew 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 Agreement on Investment negotiations were 
conclude d. 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 China'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 exports 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 the second half of 2020. This is because China w as 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 electri cal 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  framework for foreign investment. It ensures that foreign -invested ente rprises participate in the 
market competition on an equal basis with their domestic 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 in vestment 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 there of; foreign investment liberalization; foreign investment 
protection. There are concerns 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 functioning 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 "Ne gative List for Cross -Border Trade in 
Services".  
Concerns by Members  
3.21.   Other concerns raised by Members include import prohibitions maintained 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 
implementation 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 t he economy is also an issue of interest, including implicit support to 
SOEs; distortions 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 not ification of Government Guidance Funds, including the support granted to individual 
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 imports 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 F ood 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 concern s include customs procedures, customs valuation and related issues and 
antidumping rules and measures over the review period, among others.  
Conclusion  
3.27.   The rise of China in global trade presents both opportunities 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 Members 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 to climb up the development ladder and ensures that Members take 
commitments commensurate with their level of development.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 the 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 s ee the import/export as making a contribution in that 
regard. I think all WTO Members welcome the message that was reinforced today that China will 
approach special and differential treatment with pragmatism and will take responsibility in the WTO 
commensu rate 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
VIET  NAM 
4.1.  Viet Nam would like to thank the delegation of the People’s Republic 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 Chair for her introductory remarks and the discussant - 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 delivered by 
Brunei  Darussalam.  
4.3.  Viet Nam acknowledges the active contribution of China to the WTO and the world tra de 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, among others.  
4.4.  The Chinese economy has been recognized as a major drive of g lobal growth since its most 
recent Trade Policy Review in 2018, as noted in the WTO Secretariat’s report. Between 2016 and 
2018, China’s real GDP growth observed an annual rate of approximately 7%. Although the 
COVID -19 pandemic pushed both global and loca l economies into deep recession, China still 
maintained encouraging growth rates of 6% and 2.3% in 2019 and 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 from 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 continu e 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 content in the 
measures and the remaining time is not sufficient for our bu sinesses 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 to promoting trade for the benefit of the two 
countries.  
4.7.  Last but not l east, Viet Nam would also like to thank His Excellency Ambassador Li Chenggang 
and his team for their active engagement and wishes China every success in its eighth Trade Policy 
Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.8.  Australia welcomes this Trade Policy Review – twenty years o n 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 benefited significantly from the transparent and predictable access to mark ets 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 Members and 
encouraged foreign investment in China. Australia has welcom ed 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 to have played a role in China’s economic 
development.  
4.10.   Australia also re cognizes 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  leadership in the Investment Facilitation for Development JSI – the first major WTO in itiative 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 Multiparty Interim Appeals 
Arbitration Arrangement.  
4.11.   China’s contribution t o 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 relinquishing its access to special and differential treatment.  
4.12.   Unfortunately, sin ce 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; unwarranted delays in listing and re -listing export establishments, issuing im port 
licenses  and other restrictions, and the imposition of unjustified antidumping 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, h ay, 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 antidumping 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 measures 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 h ave directly linked these trade actions 
to wider 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 t o 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 actions 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 rates 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 2018 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 the Secretariat’s  report recognized 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 or disrupted Australia’s trade 
with China of other commodities, includin g 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  State -Owned Enterprises, and their high rate of financial support, may affect the functioning of 
market -oriented policies 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 Chinese 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, m arket-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 fulfilled” its 
notification obligations, we note the Secretariat’s report identified outstanding notifications. Meeting 
one’s transparency obligations provides other Members and traders with visibility an d confidence 
that a Member is complying with WTO commitments. 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 wit h its WTO obligations, for the benefit 
of all. We look 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 Mi nister 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, ener gy, transport to name a few.  
4.27.   China is one of the biggest 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 b illion in 2020. While the trade balance remains in favour 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 stor y 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 lin e. China has met the target of poverty eradication set by the UN 2030 Agenda for 
Sustainable Development a good 10 years ahead of schedule!  
4.29.   Not only has China’s development strategy benefited China’s own people, but its open and 
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 w ith 
countries in its Belt and Road Initiative. 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 Roa d Initiative through the China -Pakistan Economic 
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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  road c onnectivity and sustainable energy infrastructure, 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 development al approach for both sides 
involving key joint -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 w as Secretary for 
Commerce and Industries Department in the province of Punjab, we set up jointly 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 West of Pakistan, various 
collaborative initiatives are a lready 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 philos ophy is a broader realization 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 cr ises in human history – the COVID -19 pandemic. 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 N ational 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 ha s shown commendable commitment to the adoption 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 for 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 c ommenting 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 Organization, 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 contribution s 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 learned from China’s trade policy, 
both for developing and developed countries, particularly in the pe riod under review. Therefore, 
members should find ways to continue to support China’s progress as an exercise 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 Government 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 frui tful 
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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 importa nt 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, scien tific, technical, humanitarian and, of course, 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 co ntinue fostering the development of 
investment 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 scientific 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 pa rtner 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 parti cular 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 , the EAEU and its Member States 
(entered into force in October 2019) has set the  stage for the development 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 efforts 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 -commerce, 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 t rading system as embodied 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 combating protectionism and emerging forms of 
discriminatio n, 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, dominated by the 
common goal of combating 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 sys tem.   
4.49.    The Russian Federation 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 forward to 
constructive cooperation in this area.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 repo rt, 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 sta rt 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  Secretariat has 
provided us with a substantive contribution to this Review. 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 this 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 to 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, an d direct 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 gro wth 
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  congratulate 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 p atent 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 stre ngthening 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 a ctive 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 co ntinue 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 liber alization 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 outsta nding. Let me state it: transparency 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 Government’s intentions to ensure appropriate governance of S tate-Owned 
Enterprises.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 submitted 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 last September, Swiss and Chinese Government and 
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 and fruitful exchanges in the context of t his Trade Policy Review.  
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 Afric a, who acts as a discussant for the 
review of China.  
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 pandemic, 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 the economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. China's GDP real gr owth 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 international trade and investments. Efforts to address climate chang e 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 and efficiency, 
and the establishment of a carbon emissions t rading 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. 
Currently 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 coop eration, 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 trade policy, we have sub mitted 
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. Finally, we 
would like to thank Ambassador Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (Sou th Africa) for her insightful views on 
this Review shared as discussant.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 2020. However, during the period under review, China's economic grow th 
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. 
Notwithstanding, 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 powe r 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 surpassed $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 China 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 further facilitate trade between our 
countries and contribute to the enhancement of our bilateral cooperation and dialogue. Israel has 
submitte d questions related to import licenses, standards and technical regulations, and government 
procurement and we look forward to receiving China's responses. Nonetheless, the report covers a 
wide range of other important areas and developments in China’s tra de policy and we are looking 
forward to reviewing replies by China to all other Members' questions.  
4.76.   Israel is currently 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 Dom estic 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 wishes China every success in this eight 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 welcom e to the Chinese delegation led by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, 
Minister of Commerce of the People's Republic of China.  
4.82.   We would also like to thank Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa, for her 
contribution as a discussant today, as well as the Chines e Government 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 libe ralization and protection, as 
outlined in the Future Work Program under the ASEAN -China FTA Upgrade Protocol.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.84.   In respect of bilateral relationship, Thailand and China have enjoyed a long cherished 
diplomatic tie for nearly 50 years, dating back to 1975. Si nce then, the two countries have developed 
the multi -dimensional partnership, and such strong bonds have still grown stronger.  
4.85.   On the trade front, China has been Thailand's largest trading partner since 2013. In 2020, 
Thailand is China's 12th largest tradi ng partner, with a bilateral trade value of approximately 
USD 98 billion, increasing 7.7% from 2019. Electric machinery, 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 investment 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 have continued to benefit from a 
well-established and longstanding economic partnership, demonstrated 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 be ing the first non - 
ASEAN signatories to ratify the RCEP Agreement.  
4.88.   Thailand welcomes China's expansion of its Free Trade Agreement network and takes note 
China's application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnershi p (CPTPP) in September 2021.   
4.89.   The TPR Review this year is particularly significant because it marks China's 20th anniversary 
of WTO Membership. We value China's participation in the WTO since 2001 and recognize the vital 
role China plays in supporting the  multilateral trading system.  
4.90.   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 efforts to 
advance issues such as Joint Stateme nt Initiatives (JSIs) on E -Commerce, Investment Facilitation, 
MSMEs, and Services Domestic Regulation, Plastic pollution as well as the WTO’s response to the 
pandemic.  
4.91.   Thailand also commends China's ongoing reform 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 proactive import policy, reducing overall customs c learance time for imports nationwide, 
reforming the IP regime, and amending the legislative framework for SPS -related issues.  
4.92.   However, Thailand remains deeply concerned about SPS issues, and we have submitted 
questions about this concern. We also attach g reat 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 ports and perishable products traffic lanes 
at each port, especially during high season.  
4.93.   In this Review, 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 and look forward to 
thoroughly reviewing them.  
4.94.   Lastly, Thailand wishes the Chinese delegation a successful Trade Policy Review and looks 
forward to strengthening our partnership at all levels.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.95.   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 
of South Africa for sharing with us her insights as the discussant, and the Secretariat for preparing 
the comprehensive reports for this Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.96.   Hong Kong, China maintains a very close economic and trade relationship with the Mainland 
of China, which has been our largest trading partner for decades. In 2020, we were the fourth largest 
trading partner of the Mainland of China and the largest source of its realized f oreign direct 
investment, accounting for more than half of the total.   
4.97.   As China is one of the largest economies in the world, its trade policy has significant impact 
on international trade and the global economy. We appreciate the progress of trade libera lization 
and facilitation efforts that have been undertaken by China in recent years.   
4.98.   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 c hallenges and global 
trade is striving to recover from the pandemic, this is the commitment and engagement that are 
mostly needed from every Member of the WTO.  
4.99.   We thank China for being the coordinator of the Friends of Investment Facilitation for 
Developme nt (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.  
4.100.   We have the following observations on China’s tr ade policies.  
4.101.   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 origin al 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 O ctober 2019 and accelerated implementation of the TFA in 
June 2021. We appreciate China’s contribution to promoting trade facilitation.  
4.102.   We are pleased to note that China has introduced further trade facilitation measures during 
the review period, such as i mplementation of paperless application for import and export licenses 
and customs clearance, reduction of number of documents required for customs process, 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.   
4.103.   Meanwhile, China continues to maintain its Authorized Economic Operator Programme and 
signed Mutual Recognition Arrangements 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.  
4.104.   According to the time release study conducted in 2021, the overall clearance time for imports 
and exports in China has been reduced by 61.9% and 86.4% respectively as compared with 2017. 
Hong Kong, China commends C hina’s continued efforts in facilitating trade.  
4.105.   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 avera ge 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 liberalization is noteworthy and we look forward to its contin uous efforts.  
4.106.   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 tar iffs 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 whea t, corn, rice, sugar, wool and cotton. We would encourage China to further liberalize 
trade in its agricultural sector.  
4.107.   Hong Kong, China appreciates China’s efforts in harmonizing its technical regulations with 
international standards with a view to facili tating free flow of trade with its trading partner. We note WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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.   
4.108.   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.  
4.109.   We are also pleased to note China’s continuous effort in its negotiation on accession to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), with the circulation of its sixth revised mar ket access 
offer. We look forward to further constructive communications between China and GPA Parties to 
resolve the remaining issues in the accession process.  
4.110.   The services sector now makes up 55% of China’s GDP, up from 51% in 2015. The 
fastest -growing s ervice 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 inves tment restrictions in 
various sectors such as manufacturing and finance. We appreciate China’s efforts in liberalizing its 
service sectors and look forward to its continued liberalization with a view to achieving its vision of 
expanding international trade . 
4.111.   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 pursue further global trade liber alization under the WTO framework. 
We thank China for the written replies to our questions and wish China a very successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.112.   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 l ike to express our 
appreciation to the Chinese Government and to the WTO Secretariat for their reports, as well as to 
the discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, for her insightful observations.  
4.113.   China is Brazil’s largest trading partner. In 2009, it b ecame Brazil’s major export market; in 
2012, Brazil’s main source of imported goods. Brazil -China bilateral trade reached a record of 
USD 102.6 billion in 2020, with a surplus of USD 33 billion for Brazil. Between January and 
August  2021, our bilateral tra de with China was valued at USD 93.8 billion - a 35% increase as 
compared to the same period last year.  
4.114.   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 su pplier 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 of manuf actured goods from China.  
4.115.   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 believe 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 
protoco ls for the export of soybean protein, corn, ginger and other agricultural products.  
4.116.   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 exports 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 encour age greater export diversification remains a priority for our 
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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.117.   The importance of our bilater al 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 Brazil’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, telecommunication 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.  
4.118.   The Secretariat report notes some positive developments since China’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 near ly 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.  
4.119.   At the same time, the Secretariat noted that, with respect to incentives 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 informati on 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 domest ic 
support notification to the WTO covers the period up to 2016, and its notification under the Subsidies 
Agreement covers the period up to 2018.  
4.120.   We encourage China to update its notifications, including with respect to agricultural 
domestic support.  
4.121.   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 China, s tated 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, pres erve 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".  
4.122.   In this spirit, Brazil lo oks forward to continuing its engagement with China and other 
Members towards a successful outcome at MC12 this year.  
4.123.   Brazil has submitted a number of questions in this Trade Policy Review. These questions 
addressed topics like telecommunications infrastru cture, 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. 
4.124.   In conclusion , Brazil wishes China a very successful and productive Trade Policy Review.  
JAPAN  
4.125.   The year 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of China’s Membership in the WTO. For its eighth 
Trade Policy Review, Japan welcomes the delegation of China, led by H.E. Mr. Wang We ntao, 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 open bus iness environment.  
4.126.   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 connection,  Japan is concerned by the increase, since the last TPR, 
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 take 
actions further that truly contribute to maintaining and strengthening the MTS.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.127.   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 p remise 
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 issu es: transparency, market distorting measures, 
state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and the lack of clarity in laws and regulations.  
4.128.   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.  
4.129.   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 the las t 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 immediate st eps to improve the situation.  
4.130.   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.  
4.131.   Second, 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 woul d 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 Capa city. 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.  
4.132.   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 o vercapacity challenges in 
those sectors.  
4.133.   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 ro les 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.  
4.134.   Fourth, on the lack of clarity in laws and re gulations: 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, a nd the Anti -Foreign Sanctions Law. This makes it difficult to achieve fair competition for foreign 
companies in China.  
4.135.   As an example of this, the definition of “national security” in China’s laws and regulations is 
so broad as to cover the areas of politi cs, 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 considered 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 
permit the government’s intervention in business activities u nder the name of “national security”, 
without due attention to transparency and fairness.  
4.136.   We have strong concerns about the laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, which 
could impede the free flow of data by legally obligating (i ) domestic data storage, (ii) export controls, WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  (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 di sadvantage, and therefore constitute inconsistencies between these laws and China’s 
national treatment obligations under the GATS and the RCEP Agreement.  
4.137.   We also see a lack of clarity in investment -related laws and their implementation. Some 
sectors are su pposed 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 ) (2020 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 applicat ion of its laws and regulations, (ii) providing a sufficient transition 
period for regulatory changes, and (iii) simplifying and streamlining procedures.  
4.138.   Next, Japan would like to make a few points regarding incumbent agendas at the WTO.  
4.139.   First, on S&DT: Ja pan believes 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 comme nsurate 
with its significant stature in the world economy.  
4.140.   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.  
4.141.   Third, on the Joint Statement Initiatives: we would like to conti nue working closely with 
China on various JSIs to develop new rules in response to the changing times.  
4.142.   Fourth, on RTAs: the report mentions that China has signed FTAs and economic partnership 
agreements with 15 countries, including the RCEP Agreement, sin ce its last TPR. Japan stresses the 
importance of the implementation of those agreements after their entry into force and is closely 
following the situation.  
4.143.   In conclusion, once again, Japan expects China to fulfil its responsibilities in a manner 
commens urate 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 p olicies. 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.  
4.144.   Japan wishes China a successful and productive TPR.  
ARGENTINA  
4.145.   Quisiéramos en primer lugar dar la bienvenida a la delegación de la República Popular China, 
encabezada por el S.E. Sr. Wang Wentao, Ministro de Comercio de China. Aprovecho la oportunidad 
para felicitar al Embajador Li Chenggang y a todo su equi po de trabajo por su compromiso y su 
liderazgo en la OMC.  
4.146.   Agradecemos los informes preparados por la República Popular China y por la Secretaría y 
los valiosos comentarios y observaciones de la Embajadora Mlumbi -Peter, que nos han permitido 
profundizar nue stro conocimiento de las prácticas comerciales de este Miembro.  
4.147.   Dentro de pocos meses Argentina y la República Popular China celebrarán 50 años de 
relaciones diplomáticas. Permítame recordar que en 1964 la Argentina fue el primer país occidental 
que expor tó trigo a China, abriendo una nueva etapa de relaciones económico -comerciales. Desde 
aquel momento, hemos ido construyendo con China una relación de confianza y amistad que se va 
fortaleciendo paulatinamente.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.148.   La República Popular China es un destacado socio comercial de la Argentina. En 2020 China 
fue nuestro segundo socio comercial en términos de volumen de comercio y el segundo destino de 
nuestras exportaciones, compuestas principalmente por bienes agrícolas y alimentos.  
4.149.   El comercio bilatera l es próspero, deficitario para nuestra parte, pero con un enorme 
potencial que permitirá establecer condiciones de crecimiento sostenido y equitativo. Para ayudar a 
expandirlo valoramos la negociación y el acuerdo progresivo de protocolos sanitarios que n os 
permiten exportar alimentos seguros, saludables y de alta calidad, que producimos en Argentina.  
4.150.   También queremos destacar las medidas adoptadas por China para hacer frente a los 
desafíos de la pandemia de COVID -19. En términos bilaterales, se estableci ó un mecanismo de 
comunicación y alerta temprana entre las autoridades sanitarias de ambos países con el propósito 
de prevenir la contaminación de COVID -19 en los cargamentos y asegurar la inocuidad de los 
alimentos. En este sentido, resaltamos que todo es te proceso estuvo basado en las directrices sobre 
Inocuidad Alimentaria de la FAO y de la OMS, demostrando la confianza mutua en los estándares 
internacionales.  
4.151.   En términos de inversiones, China es un Miembro de peso en Argentina. Muchas de las 
grandes emp resas chinas tienen presencia en Argentina, y sus inversiones están concentradas en el 
sector bancario, luego comercio y, en un tercer lugar, la minería, principalmente en la explotación 
del litio. Asimismo, vale destacar que China es el primer inversor en  el sector de energías renovables.  
4.152.   Con relación al financiamiento para la infraestructura, Argentina desea subrayar la 
importancia de los créditos chinos para la construcción de dos centrales hidroeléctricas, un parque 
fotovoltaico y la rehabilitación de varios ramales de nuestra red ferroviaria de carga.  
4.153.   Esta fotografía nos permite visualizar que existe un enorme espacio para promover las 
inversiones chinas en nuestro país, como herramienta que potencie el desarrollo sustentable 
argentino, de la mano del  crecimiento chino. Al mismo tiempo, cabe enfatizar que el conjunto de 
inversiones y líneas de financiamiento buscan contribuir al desarrollo de energías más limpias y a la 
reducción de emisiones de gases de efectos invernadero, que apalancan el crecimient o de la 
producción y de las exportaciones, de un modo socialmente inclusivo y ambientalmente resiliente.  
4.154.   Argentina desea destacar que junto a China comparte:  
(i) La visión de que el multilateralismo debe contribuir a desarrollar instrumentos que nos 
permitan c onstruir un futuro compartido para todos, teniendo en cuenta las particularidades 
de los países en desarrollo.  
(ii) La convicción de que el Desarrollo Sustentable debe basarse en el principio de 
responsabilidades comunes, pero diferenciadas, para corregir las i nequidades del pasado y 
para evitar establecer inequidades futuras.  
(iii) La idea de que el camino al desarrollo sólo puede ser transitado mediante la construcción de 
la confianza, la buena fe y el fortalecimiento de los lazos de amistad y cooperación, basados 
en el diálogo franco y fraterno.  
 
4.155.   La República Argentina reconoce en China un Miembro activo y comprometido del sistema 
multilateral de comercio.  
4.156.   Esperamos que China continúe trabajando de manera constructiva en la reforma del 
comercio agrícola, contribuyendo a la reducción sustancial y p rogresiva de la ayuda interna distorsiva 
de la producción y el comercio y en las negociaciones sobre las subvenciones a la pesca.  
4.157.   Asimismo, esperamos continuar trabajando juntos en el restablecimiento del funcionamiento 
pleno del sistema de solución de dif erencias, como piedra angular del sistema multilateral de 
comercio y en el proceso de reforma de esta Organización, con una dirección que fortalezca la 
posición y posibilidades de crecimiento de los países en desarrollo.  
4.158.   En el marco de este Examen de polít ica comercial, hemos presentado a la República Popular 
China preguntas vinculadas, entre otros temas, a la reglamentación en materia de indicaciones 
geográficas, inversión extranjera en el sector de semillas, incentivos agrícolas durante la pandemia 
de COV ID-19, comercio de servicios, incluido el comercio electrónico y medidas tributarias WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  vinculadas a la contaminación ambiental, incluido el mercado de carbono. Agradecemos de 
antemano las respuestas proporcionadas, las cuales serán debidamente estudiadas por  nuestras 
autoridades en Buenos Aires.  
4.159.   Para concluir, quisiéramos reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta oportunidad de 
intercambiar consideraciones sobre las prácticas comerciales de China y desearle a la delegación 
china una exitosa conclusión de este ejercicio.  
SINGAPORE  
4.160.   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 virtually from Beijing. We would like to first exp ress our appreciation to the People’s 
Republic of China for its Government report and statement. Our appreciation also goes to the Chair, 
Ambassador Athaliah Molokomme, the discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, as well as the 
Secretariat for their i nvaluable insights. Allow me to make three points.  
4.161.   First, Singapore and China share longstanding and substantive bilateral economic ties, 
underpinned by strong trade and investment flows. China has been Singapore’s largest merchandise 
trading  partner since 2013, with bilateral merchandise trade exceeding USD 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 USD 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 billion in 
2019.   
4.162.   The depth of this r elationship is further characterized 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 (JCBC), as w ell 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 (RCEP), the ASEAN -China FTA as well as the bilat eral 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 January 2022, 
and welcome China’s interest to joi n the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans -
Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).  
4.163.   Second , the depth and breadth of bilateral cooperation continue to expand as both sides 
work hard to identify emerging areas 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 included the development of a digitalization strategy under 
“Digital China”, as well as green and sustain able development goals.  
4.164.   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 
Minister 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 innovation and 
entrepreneurship.  
4.165.   Singapore also look s 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 for 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.  
4.166.   Third, Singapore will continue to work with China to strengthen the free, open and rules -
based mult ilateral 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 on this auspicious 
milestone. As then -Chief Negotiator and Vice Minister of Foreign Trade Mr L ong Yongtu said at the 
General Council in 2001, “ China will make its best efforts to play a positive and constructive role, WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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.  
4.167.   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 support 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 Chi na has made in embracing the digital 
transformation, we hope that it will continue to support a high ambition and meaningful outcome in 
the JSI on E -Commerce.  
4.168.   Since transparency is a critical pillar of the WTO, we encourage China to improve its 
notificatio ns 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 investment and services liber alization. Additionally, we have 
requested China to elaborate on its regulations and future 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 .   
4.169.   Finally, my delegation would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions of 
Ambassador  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 multila teral trading 
system. We wish China a successful 8th Trade Policy Review.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.170.   En nombre del Gobierno de Costa Rica, quisiera dar una calurosa bienvenida a la delegación 
de China, encabezada por Su Excelencia, el Señor Ministro Wentao, así como al E mbajador 
Chenggang y a su equipo aquí en Ginebra, y agradecerles por su informe y excelente presentación 
esta mañana. De igual forma, quisiera extender este agradecimiento a la Embajadora Mlumbi -Peter 
por sus interesantes comentarios y a la Secretaría de l a OMC por el informe elaborado.   
4.171.   China es el segundo socio comercial de Costa Rica, a nivel individual, después de EE.UU., y 
nuestro principal socio comercial en Asia. Este año, en el marco de la celebración del bicentenario 
de Costa Rica, conmemoramos ig ualmente los primeros 10 años de vigencia del TLC entre nuestras 
naciones. Mientras en 2011 el intercambio comercial totalizó USD 1.319 millones, en 2020 alcanzó 
la cifra de USD 2.271 millones. En promedio, el comercio creció a un ritmo anual de 6,2%. Adem ás, 
desde 2016, contamos con un Acuerdo de Promoción y Protección de inversiones con la República 
Popular China que constituye una herramienta muy valiosa para profundizar la relación entre ambas 
partes.  
4.172.   Durante el periodo de examen, China, al igual que el  resto del mundo, se enfrentó a los 
retos que generó la pandemia por el COVID -19. A pesar de los efectos adversos, la tasa de 
crecimiento anual del PIB durante el periodo objeto de examen se situó en una tasa promedio del 
2% y el 2020 terminó con una tasa de crecimiento positiva de 2,3% del PIB real.  
4.173.   El crecimiento de China debe parte de su éxito a una serie de reformas económicas, en 
muchos casos impulsadas por formar parte de la OMC, que han permitido a China prácticamente 
eliminar la pobreza extrema. Se gún destaca el informe de la Secretaría, durante el periodo de 
evaluación, la pobreza cayó de 3,1% a 1,7%, y a 0,6% en el 2019, y bien podría haber alcanzado 
la meta de erradicación de la pobreza medida bajo la base del 2011 para el 2020 de no ser por el 
impacto de la pandemia. Estos resultados sin duda merecen celebrarse.  
4.174.   La reducción de la pobreza también ha venido acompañada de un incremento en la clase 
media, lo que a su vez ha transformado la economía china, de forma que el consumo, la demanda 
interna  y los servicios se han convertido en los factores predominantes del crecimiento económico, 
en lugar de la inversión, la demanda externa y la manufactura, como ocurría en la etapa de 
 
 4 Speech by Mr. Long Yongtu, 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/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  crecimiento rápido anterior. En esa línea, vemos con mucho interés el cre cimiento del sector de 
servicios en China, que representó por primera vez el 50% del PIB en 2015, las medidas que se han 
implementado para reducir las restricciones en algunos sectores, así como la apertura del sector 
financiero.  
4.175.   También quisiéramos recalc ar la importancia de China en los esfuerzos por mitigar el cambio 
climático, siendo el mayor consumidor de energía del mundo. En esa línea vemos positivamente la 
reducción relativa de su consumo de carbón y la promoción de energías limpias. También celebra mos 
su trabajo en el Diálogo sobre Contaminación por Plásticos y Comercio de Plásticos Sostenibles. 
Instamos a China a intensificar su compromiso mediante la reforma de los subsidios a los 
combustibles fósiles como mecanismo crucial para reducir las distor siones y mejorar los flujos 
comerciales, así como para apoyar la protección del medio ambiente. También nos complace saber 
que el Gobierno va a presentar una nueva política que terminará los subsidios a los combustibles y 
a la construcción de barcos pesque ros, una señal positiva en lo que es la recta final hacia un acuerdo 
en pesca para la Duodécima Conferencia Ministerial.  
4.176.   Costa Rica reconoce el papel de China en el sistema multilateral de comercio de la OMC. 
También vemos positivamente su incorporación a una serie de iniciativas conjuntas, en áreas como 
el comercio electrónico, facilitación de inversiones, MiPymes y el Acuerdo sobre Tecnología de la 
Información y su ampliación, entre otros ámbitos. Destacamos el papel constructivo de China en las 
discusiones sobre la Decisión de Bali sobre Administración de Contingentes Arancelarios, y lo 
instamos a seguir apoyando bajo el mismo espíritu los trabajos en las negociaciones para la reforma 
del comercio agrícola.  
4.177.   Costa Rica reconoce el papel pre ponderante de China en el comercio y la economía mundial, 
y en esa línea sigue con atención el desarrollo del sistema regulatorios sanitario y fitosanitario chino, 
así como las diversas políticas que se notifican en el contexto del Comité sobre Obstáculos Técnicos 
al Comercio. Sobre estos temas, instamos a China a seguir trabajando con los Miembros en aras de 
asegurar que la implementación de medidas no arancelarias tenga el menor impacto posible sobre 
el comercio, en especial en lo referente a productos ag ropecuarios.  
4.178.   En el tema de transparencia, vemos con preocupación lo señalado en el informe de la 
Secretaría respecto de las notificaciones pendientes de China en materia de empresas comerciales 
del Estado, cuya notificación más reciente cubre el periodo 2015 -2017. La s ituación es similar 
respecto del Acuerdo sobre la Agricultura, en el que la última notificación de China respecto de sus 
ayudas internas fue presentada en el 2018 y corresponde al periodo 2016. Notificación en la que 
además China notificó una violación de sus compromisos de MGA al sobrepasar sus ayudas de 
minimis . Instamos a China a actualizar sus notificaciones, y a alinear sus políticas de ayudas internas 
con sus compromisos bajo el Acuerdo sobre la Agricultura.  
4.179.   En el marco de este Examen, Costa Rica ha p resentado preguntas sobre políticas de 
inversión, comercio de servicios, compras públicas, derechos de propiedad intelectual e indicaciones 
geográficas, comercio electrónico y acceso a mercados. Mi delegación es consciente del esfuerzo del 
país examinado e n la preparación de las respuestas a las preguntas formuladas, por lo que 
agradecemos a China la atención brindada a nuestras consultas.  
4.180.   Finalmente, aprovecho para desearle a la delegación de China un exitoso Examen de política 
comercial.  
OMAN  
4.181.   It is an ho nour and a pleasure to participate in the Trade Policy Review 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.  
4.182.   This year China is celebrating th e 20th anniversary of its accession to the WTO, and we take 
this opportunity to extend our congratulation to China.  
4.183.   The Sultanate of Oman and China enjoy excellent political, economic and trade relations. In 
the past four decades, these relations have been  strengthened in various fields related to energy, WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  economy, trade, culture and others, which contribute to the development and common prosperity 
of the two countries.  
4.184.   Despite the global declining trend in China’s economy, performance during the review per iod 
the country's economy has been a major driver of global growth, the swift fiscal and monetary policy 
reactions helped mitigate the economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic and prepared for the 
recovery. GDP growth was 2.3% in 2020, which made China the  only G -20 economy with a positive 
growth rate that year.  
4.185.   At the national level, the long -term structural changes in China's economy, away from 
agriculture and industry towards services, have continued and the economy began to recover 
starting from mid -2020. 
4.186.   Oman welcomes the adoption of a new Foreign Investment Law in China; this law will 
improve the business environment for foreign investors.  
4.187.   Oman also welcomes China’s wide -ranging reforms that included its intellectual property (IP) 
regime and the impro vement in trade facilitation initiatives introduced since 2015.   
4.188.   China is an active participant and major player in the multilateral trading system. Oman 
looks forwards to working 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.  
4.189.   To conclude, Oman appreciates China’s initiatives on technical assistance in favour of 
develop ing and least developed countries, which aims to support the integration of these countries 
into the multilateral trading system  
4.190.   The Sultanate of Oman wishes China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
NORWAY  
4.191.   Let me join others in welcoming the delegatio n of China to this Trade Policy Review and to 
thank the discussant for her contribution to our deliberations.  
4.192.   This year marks the 20th anniversary of China's accession to the WTO. During this period 
China has benefited tremendously from becoming closely in tegrated in the global exchange of goods 
and services.  
4.193.   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 contri butions to the multilateral trading system and regarding China’s respect for and 
compliance with WTO commitments and obligations.  
4.194.   We welcome the statement in the Government report that China is a staunch supporter, 
active participant and major contributor to the multilateral trading system.  
4.195.   Norway is looking forward to continuing our cooperation with China with the aim to further 
develop and strengthening the multilateral rules -based trading system. We appreciate China’s active 
participation in several Joi nt Statement Initiatives such as investment facilitation for development 
and the JSI on e -commerce.  
4.196.   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 c ommend 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.  
4.197.   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 responsibility weighs on our collective shoulders. In our view, conditioning WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  discussions on a work programme f or future negotiations on domestic support in agriculture on 
disciplines addressing only AMS of developed members does not fulfil this test.  
4.198.   China and Norway 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 for maritime 
transport.  
4.199.   Both Norway and China are shipbuilding nations with many common interests. Norwa y has 
appreciated the cooperation with China in the International Working Group on Export Credits (IWG) 
on guidelines for the global ship building sector. It is unfortunate that negotiations were suspended 
in 2020, and we hope that negotiations can be resu med in the not -too-distant future.  
4.200.   Turning to China’s implementation of and adherence to WTO commitments and obligations, 
permit me to point to some issues of concern.  
4.201.   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.  
4.202.   On government support programmes, the S ecretariat 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 and steel. We urge the Chinese 
gover nment 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 Countervailing Measures and established pr ocedures.  
4.203.   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 enterprises have equal access to governmen t contracts, and that these revisions 
may pave the way for China’s accession to the GPA.  
4.204.   China currently maintains a very strict inbound travel regime, which includes restrictions on 
visa issuance. This makes it challenging for foreign companies to bring competent personnel who 
are foreign citizens into China. We hope China will ease restrictions on issuance of visas.  
4.205.   Export of seafood to China is very important to Norway. We thank China for its good 
cooperation over a number 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.  
4.206.   China's system for obtaining and maintaining market access for seafood products is 
complicated and non -transparent. The e mergency 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 scie ntific evidence.  
4.207.   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 delayi ng 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.  
4.208.   Let me conclude by expressing our appreciation fo r the comprehensive and close bilateral 
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 Norway -China Joint 
Economic Commission b efore the end of 2021, as well as in the biannual Norway -China Maritime 
Working Group.  
4.209.   Finally, let me wish the delegation of China a successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  UNITED  STATES  
4.210.   The United States welcomes Minister Wang Wentao and the rest of China’s d elegation.  
4.211.   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 c hallenges to that system that China 
presents. Today, those challenges remain before us.  
4.212.   When China acceded to the WTO 20 years ago, WTO Members expected that the terms set 
forth in China’s Protocol of Accession would permanently dismantle existing Chinese  policies and 
practices that were incompatible with an international trading system expressly based on open, 
market -oriented policies. But those expectations have not been realized, and it appears that China 
has no inclination 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 countries.  
4.213.   The United States’ most fun damental concerns with China’s trade regime involve China’s 
industrial policies. While other WTO Members also seek to help their industries develop, China’s 
approach is materially different. China’s industrial policies go well 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, invest ment 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 for industrial 
policy purposes. China uses these measures to secure dominance in global markets, which 
undermines U.S. economic interests.  
4.214.   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 mistakes.” A number of WTO Members in this room have experien ced China’s 
“economic coercion,” which takes many forms.   
4.215.   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 
collaboration with other WTO Members. 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 underlyin g policies, and meaningful reforms by China remained 
elusive.  
4.216.   Because of this situation, the United States has pursued and will continue to pursue all 
available tools in an effort to persuade China to make needed changes. We made some progress 
last year wi th the signing of an economic and trade agreement with China, but our most fundamental 
concerns with China’s trade regime remain unaddressed.  
4.217.   The United States will also continue to pursue progress at the WTO.  
4.218.   We believe that trade – and the WTO – can and should be a force for good that encourages 
a race to the top 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 empl oyment, pursue sustainable development, and protect and preserve the 
environment. We believe that refocusing on these goals can help bring shared prosperity to all, not 
just some.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.219.   The United States is not the only WTO Member whose workers and businesses ar e being 
harmed by China’s unfair trade practices, and we will be more successful in building truly fair 
international trade that enables healthy competition if we work together, and speak up.  
4.220.   Of course, the best solution remains for China to take the init iative to fully and effectively 
embrace open, market -oriented policies, and that is what we continue to urge China to do.   
MÉXICO  
4.221.   México da la más cordial bienvenida a la delegación de China, encabezada por el Sr. Wang 
Wentao, Ministro de Comercio.  
4.222.   Agradecemos a la Embajadora Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter (Sudáfrica) por su análisis detallado 
como ponente y, a la Secretaría de la OMC por el trabajo tan diligente para la elaboración de su 
informe.  
4.223.   En materia comercial internacional, la importancia e impacto d e China es irrefutable, luego 
de casi dos décadas de su ingreso a la OMC, ocupa ya el primer lugar en exportaciones y el segundo 
en importaciones mundiales de mercancías, siendo el segundo mayor participante del comercio 
internacional. La expansión económi ca y la dimensión de su inserción en los mercados mundiales de 
mercancías es la historia económica más relevante de esta generación.  
4.224.   Pese a las adversidades a las que el comercio y la economía internacional se han enfrentado 
durante el periodo de examen, principalmente por la pandemia, China ha logrado mantener un 
equilibrio en su economía y se encuentra al frente de los países con una mayor recuperación 
económica. El Banco Mundial estima que China tendrá un crecimiento del 8,5% en 2021, esto es 
casi 3 pun tos porcentuales por encima de la media global estimada. Lo anterior, sugiere que las 
políticas económicas implementadas por China para responder a la crisis sanitaria han dado frutos. 
Un ejemplo es que China reportó la tasa más alta en generación de emple os durante el 2020.  
4.225.   México y China sostienen una relación comercial dinámica y en constante evolución. En 2020, 
nuestro intercambio comercial ascendió a más de USD 81,000 millones, lo que representó el 10,2% 
de nuestro comercio internacional. De los paíse s de la región Asia Pacífico, China es el tercer mayor 
inversionista en México y la inversión mexicana en China sigue en constante crecimiento.  
4.226.   En el marco de la OMC, reconocemos la activa y constructiva participación de China, 
encabezada por el Embajador  Li, en las negociaciones sobre las subvenciones a la pesca y en todas 
las iniciativas conjuntas, particularmente resaltamos su liderazgo en la Iniciativa de Facilitación de 
las Inversiones. Confiamos en que todas estas negociaciones se concretarán en resu ltados tangibles, 
así como en que China contribuirá a enfrentar los retos del comercio internacional y en particular los 
que enfrenta esta Organización, prevaleciendo siempre un enfoque comercial y sistémico.  
4.227.   Igualmente, reconocemos el involucramiento de China en los temas relevantes para la OMC, 
tales como el Órgano de Solución de Diferencias, como uno de los 121 Miembros proponentes para 
cubrir las vacantes del Órgano de Apelación. De igual forma, China es uno de los 25 Miembros del 
MPIA.  
4.228.   En aspectos co merciales concretos, me permito referir que, en materia de medidas sanitarias 
y fitosanitarias, en particular las medidas de emergencia a la importación de alimentos de la cadena 
de frío impuestas para evitar la entrada del virus de COVID -19, México contin úa con preocupaciones 
por la falta de evidencia y justificación basada en ciencia de que el virus se transmita en alimentos 
o envases de alimentos. Por lo tanto, esperamos que China proporcione la información científica que 
la respalda, o en su caso retire  dichas medidas.  
4.229.   También observamos que China sigue sin precisar claramente en qué consisten algunos de 
sus Programas de Ayuda en diversos sectores agrícolas. Del mismo modo, constatamos que presenta 
rezagos en sus notificaciones de los apoyos que otorga a  los sectores agropecuario y pesquero. Esta 
falta de información permite una apreciación fidedigna limitada de los niveles de ayuda otorgados 
y, por tanto, del cumplimiento de compromisos de China. Dado el cada vez mayor espacio para 
otorgar apoyos distors ionantes en materia agrícola, derivado de los constantes incrementos en su WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  producción, es de vital importancia contar con mayor transparencia sobre el uso y las políticas de 
dichos apoyos que podrían tener un impacto en los mercados internacionales.  
4.230.   Nos co ngratulamos por las medidas adoptadas por China para la facilitación del comercio 
mediante la aplicación de la cláusula de la ventanilla única nacional en 2019. Así como de las 
modificaciones de su legislación relativa a las medidas antidumping y la implem entación de su nueva 
Ley de Inversión Extranjera.  
4.231.   Por otra parte, desde hace varios Exámenes de la Política Comercial de China, México ha 
expresado su preocupación, así como en otros foros, frente a uno de los graves problemas que 
enfrentan los mercados i nternacionales: los excesos de capacidad en el sector del acero y aluminio. 
Estos contribuyen a la incertidumbre y por tanto a la caída de precios a nivel global, lo cual tiene 
repercusiones importantes en países como México.  
4.232.   Del informe de la Secretaría,  se deriva que el valor de las importaciones de acero y hierro 
registraron un notable aumento en 2020, mientras que el valor de las exportaciones tuvo una 
reducción en comparación con 2018. Estaremos dando seguimiento a la evolución de estas cifras y 
a las medidas anunciadas por China para reducir y desalentar el exceso de capacidad. Reiteramos 
la importancia de continuar con esfuerzos como estos para llevar a cabo reformas orientadas a 
eliminar políticas gubernamentales que tienen un impacto en la distorsi ón de los mercados 
internacionales.  
4.233.   Nuevamente alentamos a China a una mayor transparencia respecto de la información 
referente a los programas de subvenciones y otros esquemas de apoyo a diversas industrias y en lo 
que respecta al papel que desempeñan las  empresas públicas en este tema. Confiamos en que China 
atenderá estas inquietudes.  
4.234.   China ha sido la economía con mayor crecimiento en los últimos años y un motor importante 
en la economía global. Para sostener dicha expansión, confiamos que superará el r eto de mantener 
su estabilidad financiera, luego de que la recuperación económica se ha basado, parcialmente, en el 
otorgamiento de importantes montos de apoyo público. Asimismo, otro reto importante será 
redimensionar el papel del Estado en sectores clave  de su economía, a través de empresas públicas 
y el otorgamiento de apoyos. Finalmente, como es recurrente en otros países, el envejecimiento de 
su población podría traer consecuencias en el futuro cercano.  
4.235.   Por ello, será importante considerar la aplicaci ón de reformas estructurales que tengan con 
fin hacer frente a estos y otros retos de la economía china.  
4.236.   Le deseamos a China el mejor de los éxitos en el presente Examen y agradecemos el 
esfuerzo realizado para responder a las preguntas formuladas por mi d elegación.  
COLOMBIA  
4.237.   Deseamos expresar nuestro saludo a la distinguida delegación de China que nos acompaña 
el día de hoy, encabezada por el Ministro Wang, el Viceministro Wang y al Embajador Li. También 
queremos agradecer a la Secretaría por el informe y a la Embajadora de Suráfrica por las pertinentes 
contribuciones realizadas.  
4.238.   Este Examen de políticas comerciales es particularmente importante para esta sala, como 
se puede evidenciar por el interés mostrado por toda la membresía, porque nos afecta directa mente 
a todos. En efecto, desde el anterior examen de las políticas comerciales de China, realizado en 
2018, la economía del país ha sido de gran influencia en el crecimiento económico mundial. Una 
porción significativa del consumo global, de los flujos de  inversión, del movimiento de capitales, de 
las innovaciones, y especialmente los avances en cuanto a reducción de la pobreza, se explican por 
lo ocurrido en China en el periodo analizado. Es por esto que el examen y el resultado exitoso del 
mismo nos conc ierne, por lo tanto, de manera muy directa a todos.  
4.239.   En particular, en lo que respecta a Colombia, las cifras de intercambio comercial con la 
República Popular china son cada vez más considerables. Permítanme contarles que Colombia es 
quizás uno de los paí ses latinoamericanos que más tarde llegó a ver crecer de manera acelerada sus WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  cifras económicas y comerciales con China. La inversión extranjera, o los flujos migratorios, por 
ejemplo, habían sido siempre relevantes pero modestos.  
4.240.   Sin embargo, desde el úl timo examen de China, esto ha venido cambiando. Algunos 
ejemplos.  
4.241.   En la última década, China fue el segundo destino de nuestras exportaciones entre 
2012-2014 y 2018 -2020. En cuanto a nuestras importaciones, China ha ocupado el 2º lugar durante 
la última dé cada detrás de EE.UU. Los flujos bilaterales de comercio, muy deficitarios desde la 
posición de Colombia, han crecido en ambos extremos de la balanza. En efecto, a la par con la venta 
de bienes chinos a Colombia, también la demanda china por nuestros produ ctos ha crecido, de modo 
que los consecuentes intercambios comerciales también han crecido y han contrarrestado los atípicos 
meses de la pandemia.  
4.242.   Por el lado de nuestras exportaciones, Colombia exporta a China una gran proporción de 
recursos minero -energ éticos, que alcanzan el 95% de nuestra canasta exportadora hacia dicho país, 
aunque en 2020, las exportaciones de bienes NME, en línea con una tendencia favorable, ha 
registrado un crecimiento de 28% respecto a 2019. Este comportamiento obedeció principalm ente 
al aumento en las ventas de café, fungicidas, madera en bruto, polímeros de propileno y glicerol en 
bruto.   
4.243.   Por el lado de nuestras importaciones, Colombia importa desde China una variada cantidad 
d productos, pero casi el 30% de estos intercambios o bedece a teléfonos y computadores, así como 
sus componentes.  
4.244.   Por el lado de la inversión, el mayor aporte de China en Colombia en nuestra historia ocurrió 
en el año 2020. La IED china en Colombia se ha enfocado principalmente en minerales, pero más 
recientemente la inversión en infraestructura se ha acelerado, con h itos como el inicio de la 
construcción de la primera línea del metro de Bogotá con capital chino, así como del tren de cercanías 
para la región metropolitana, entre otros.  
4.245.   Las elevadas tasas de crecimiento del PIB chino y sus efectos en nuestra economía s on pues 
innegables. De ahí el interés manifiesto que nos presentan sus decisiones de política económica y 
regulatoria y la importancia directa que otorgamos a este proceso de Examen.  
4.246.   El informe de la Secretaría, al respecto, describe un número importante de reformas 
orientadas al mercado. Así, por ejemplo, menciona que en la versión de 2020 de las Medidas 
Administrativas Especiales relativas al Acceso a la Inversión Extranjera se redujo el número de 
medidas restrictivas de 63 en 2017 a 33 en 2020.  De la m isma forma, una apertura gradual, aún 
modesta de los servicios -y de los servicios financieros en particular, es descrita como un cambio 
importante del periodo de análisis. En la misma línea, se resalta que el promedio de los aranceles 
aplicados de nación más favorecida (NMF) disminuyó del 2,2 punto entre el 2017 y el 2021, con 
reducciones en casi todas las categorías de productos. China también otorga un trato arancelario 
preferencial a las importaciones procedentes de países menos adelantados (PMA) que ha n 
establecido relaciones diplomáticas con ella. En febrero de 2021, China aplicaba condiciones de 
acceso libres de arancel a 97% de las líneas arancelarias de 41 PMAs.  
4.247.   Estos cambios, aunados al cambio estructural a largo plazo de la economía de China que 
prosiguió en el periodo de examen, en virtud del cual la economía pasa cada vez más de la 
agricultura, a la industria, y a los servicios, con sus consecuentes efectos en la demanda global por 
todo tipo de bienes y servicios, son de interés del aparato productivo colombiano. China es uno de 
nuestros mejores clientes y también uno de nuestros más retadores competidores.  
4.248.   Es por esta razón que Colombia otorga la mayor importancia a buscar comprender a 
profundidad sus políticas más exitosas. Para nuestro paí s es necesario y seria significativamente 
valioso conocer con mayor detalle y actualidad, las subvenciones otorgadas a su aparato productivo. 
Un aporte importante para esta evaluación serán las mejoras significativas en la oportunidad y 
profundidad de las notificaciones sobre subvenciones, especialmente del nivel regional, tanto en 
materia de agricultura, como de subvenciones a la pesca, industriales y de sus empresas estatales. 
Una parte considerable de nuestras preguntas al Gobierno chino están dirigidas en este sentido.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.249.   Al respecto, destacamos el papel que China concede al sistema multilateral de comercio y 
mantiene un rol activo en las discusiones de la OMC. Destacamos igualmente que China ha venido 
apoyando la inclusión de nuevos temas al sistema multil ateral, tal como lo mencionan tanto los 
informes de la Secretaría y del Gobierno, al participar en diferentes iniciativas del orden plurilateral. 
También, y de manera muy importante para quienes buscamos un proceso de solución de diferencias 
anclado en reg las, es de destacar que China es un miembro del MPIA. Así, no solo China es un 
usuario asiduo del Sistema de Solución de Diferencias, sino que resaltamos la importancia que le ha 
dado a buscar alternativas con otros países que permitan un sistema de dos in stancias en el que las 
normas estén en el centro de la solución de crisis comerciales. China por otro lado, además de ser 
un Miembro activo en materia de disputas y negociaciones. En materia de transparencia, instamos 
al Gobierno chino a mantener y reforza r la dinámica activa en la presentación de notificaciones a la 
OMC y esperamos que se puedan poner al día en notificaciones de particular trascendencia, incluidas 
las relativas a las empresas comerciales del Estado, la ayuda interna al sector agropecuario,  y las 
subvenciones a sus pesquerías.  
4.250.   Para finalizar, no me resta más que felicitar a China por sus avances, desearle el mayor de 
los éxitos en su Examen de política comercial y animamos al Embajador y a su Misión a continuar 
su rol activo al interior de la OMC en pro de un mejor funcionamiento del sistema multilateral de 
comercio.  
UKRAINE  
4.251.   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.  
4.252.   The eighth Trade Policy Review of China offers a good opportunity to deepen our 
understanding of recent developments in, and challenges to, China`s trade, economic, and 
investment policies occurred since its previous Review in 2018.  
4.253.   Ukraine appreci ates 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.  
4.254.   Ukraine commends high GDP growth rates, trade reforms and structur al changes in China’s 
economy, resulting in its shift from a stage of high -speed growth to a stage of high -quality 
development.  
4.255.   We note continuous and stable economic recovery after the outbreak of the COVID ‑19 
pandemic, starting in mid -2020, and appreciat e Government’s stabilizing measures and policy aimed 
at enhancing the liberalization 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.  
4.256.   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 op timization, energy conservation and efficiency and the establishment of a carbon 
emissions trading market.  
4.257.   At a multilateral level, 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 joint statement initiatives on 
e-Commerce; investment facilitation for development; micro, small, and medium -sized enterprises; 
and domestic regulation.  
4.258.   In terms of bilateral relations, China remains an important trade partner for 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 in dustry, education, healthcare etc.  
4.259.   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 % over the 
previous year (exports USD 7.1 billion, imports USD 8.3 billion). As of January -July 2021, the WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  Ukrainian -Chinese bilateral trade amounted to USD 10.5 billion ( increase of  31.5 % compared to the 
same period of 2020).  
4.260.   China is consistently among the TOP 5 importers of Ukrainian agricultur al 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.  
4.261.   Our steadily growing economic and trade relationship has been accompanied by a num ber 
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” and the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road”.  
4.262.   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 registration of exporters of 
plant-based feeds; establishment of cooperation between competent authorities on SPS -related 
issues; the new foreign inves tment legislation and foreign investment protection; functioning of pilot 
free trade zones; VAT application; customs cooperation; export restrictions and licensing; new 
fisheries policy; implementation of agricultural and environmental policies etc.  
4.263.   I woul d like to express our gratitude for the responses to our questions and wish the 
delegation of China very successful Trade Policy Review.  
4.264.   We look forward to further strengthening our bilateral relations and cooperation, including 
across the WTO bodies on d ifferent issues of mutual interest.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.265.   En nombre del Gobierno de El Salvador, deseo unirme a las delegaciones que me han 
precedido, dando la bienvenida a la distinguida delegación del Gobierno de China, encabezada por 
el Ministro de Comercio. S.E.  Wang Wentao, así como al Embajador Li Chenggang y a todos los 
funcionarios que nos acompañan de capital y de la Misión aquí en Ginebra.  
4.266.   Así mismo, agradezco las muy acertadas apreciaciones de la Embajadora de Sudáfrica 
Sra. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter y a la Se cretaría por el informe presentado.  
4.267.   Para El Salvador es un honor participar en este ejercicio de transparencia. En estos tiempos 
de incertidumbre mundial y en los cuales el sistema multilateral del comercio atraviesa diversos 
desafíos, este ejercicio nos permite a los Miembros tener una visión amplia y conocer a profundidad 
las políticas comerciales y relacionadas al comercio de nuestros socios comerciales, lo anterior, 
especialmente ante las dificultades que enfrentamos por la pandemia.  
4.268.   Este octavo Exame n de las políticas comerciales nos permite conocer que China, al igual que 
todos los Miembros de esta Organización, ha sufrido el impacto de la crisis económica por la 
pandemia, con una disminución del PIB pasando del 7,0% en 2016 -2018 al 6,0% en 2019 y el  2,3% 
en 2020 y con una contracción del 6,8% a principios del año pasado.  
4.269.   No obstante esta situación, la economía China ha seguido de forma general una dinámica 
de crecimiento y se prevé que este crecimiento alcance de nuevo el 6,0% en 2021, a medida que 
las actividades económicas se vayan normalizando.  
4.270.   Es de reconocer que, a partir de mediados de 2020, la economía empezó a recuperarse, 
impulsada principalmente por la inversión pública y el comercio internacional, lo cual como lo indica 
el informe de la S ecretaría, se debe a las rápidas reacciones en materia de política fiscal y monetaria 
ayudaron a mitigar las repercusiones económicas de la pandemia de COVID -19  
4.271.   Como sucede con muchos países, China ha continuado con el cambio estructural a largo 
plazo de su economía, para pasar de la agricultura y la industria a los servicios. Los servicios 
representan actualmente el 55% del PIB, las exportaciones del sector de se rvicios, especialmente 
de los sectores de empresas, transporte y viajes, son verdaderamente impresionantes en montos, WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  alcanzando los USD 235.000 millones en 2020; aunque mantiene una tasa deficitaria con 
importaciones de alrededor USD 380.000 millones en e l 2020.  
4.272.   Es de resaltar que, en los últimos años, China siguió tratando de ampliar el comercio 
internacional y las inversiones, como se indica en los planes quinquenales y diversas medidas 
administrativas.  
4.273.   Asimismo, en el marco de política comercial de Ch ina destacan los esfuerzos por resolver los 
problemas derivados del cambio climático. Entre las principales medidas en curso en este sentido 
caben mencionar la reestructuración industrial, la optimización de la estructura energética, la 
conservación y la e ficiencia energéticas, y el establecimiento de un mercado para el comercio de 
derechos de emisión de carbono.  
4.274.   Es importante señalar que China mantiene una amplia red de acuerdos comerciales, con más 
de 19 ACR con 26 países y continúa negociando nuevos acu erdos.  
4.275.   En el marco multilateral, se destaca la activa participación de China en diversos temas de la 
OMC, otorgando gran importancia a esta Organización como foro para acordar disciplinas y 
compromisos encaminados a reducir los obstáculos al comercio inte rnacional. Es especialmente 
activo en varios frentes de negociación, incluyendo los subsidios a la pesca, la agricultura, y la 
reglamentación nacional.  
4.276.   Congratulamos a China por la presentación de un número importante de notificaciones ante 
la Secretaría de la OMC durante el periodo de examen, sin embargo, es de mencionar que continúan 
pendientes algunas notificaciones, por lo que alentamos a las autoridades chinas a cumplir con sus 
compromisos de transparencia.  
4.277.   En esta misma línea, resulta preocupante el  alto número de medidas de defensa comercial 
que aplica China, las cuales, incluso afectan productos salvadoreños con un gran potencial 
exportador.  
4.278.   En el ámbito bilateral, aunque en la actualidad el comercio entre nuestros países es modesto, 
tenemos mucha s expectativas de reforzar estas relaciones en el futuro cercano.  
4.279.   No me queda más que desear a China muchos éxitos en este Examen.  
CANADA  
4.280.   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 China’s GDP per capita is over USD 10,000, and 
China is on track to surpass the World Bank’s high -income country threshold. Canada commend s 
China for its achievements in lifting hundreds of millions out of poverty and providing prosperity to 
its citizens.  
4.281.   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.  
4.282.   China’s development has benefited greatly from the rules -based trading system supported 
by the WTO. With this comes the responsibility t o uphold and defend WTO principles. While China 
has supported many of these principles, its commitment to market -oriented policies has been 
insufficient. The Marrakesh 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.  
4.283.   China’s shortcomings in its commitments are also evident in regard to state -owned 
enterprises. We are concerned when the Chinese Government a ccords 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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.284.   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 Forum on Steel Excess Capacity.  
4.285.   China’s regulatory processes continue to be unclear and unpred ictable. For example, the 
new Regulations on the Security Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure provide only a 
vague definition of “critical information 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.  
4.286.   We applaud China for reducing its MFN applied tariffs on a wide range of products in January. 
While any tariff reduction is notable, China continues to m aintain 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 commitment to extend any preferential tariff treatment to all imports of 
wood and paper product s 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  gap in agriculture 
transparency.  
4.287.   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.  
4.288.   Most troubling, Canada has noted a recent pattern regarding China’s growing willingness to 
deploy economic coercive measures to block or otherwise hin der trade in response 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 
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 contin ue to be 
arbitrarily and unjustifiably restricted. That is why Canada has requested the establishment of a 
WTO panel on this matter.  
4.289.   In addition, Canada remains concerned that measures adopted by China in 2020 to 
temporarily suspend exports from meat and f ish 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 onl y 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. 
4.290.   We remai n concerned that other new regulations 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 implementa tion for eighteen 
months.   
4.291.   We welcome 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 tradema rk system, and infringement. The risk 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.  
4.292.   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 in dustries also still face pressure to establish joint -ventures and transfer technology and 
remain burdened with local content requirements and foreign equity caps.  
4.293.   Canada encourages China to address the environmental and labour challenges that have 
accompanied rapid economic development. Serious allegations have been made that forced labour WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  is endemic in China’s agricultural, textile and garment, automotive, fisherie s, and technological 
industries. Canada requests further transparency by China on this issue.  
4.294.   We welcome Chinese 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 participate in the 
implementation of the second phase of this declaration. We also commend China for its participation 
in the WTO Informal Working Group on MSM Es and for its constructive engagement in the joint 
statement initiatives on investment facilitation for development, e -commerce, and services domestic 
regulation. We also welcome China’s engagement on environmental issues at the WTO and hope 
that China wi ll co-sponsor the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussion 
ministerial statement.  
4.295.   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 Chin a to support and promote the rules -based order so that it can 
continue to bring prosperity to its own citizens and to those around the world.   
PHILIPPINES  
4.296.   At the outset, the Philippines associates itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by 
Brunei  Darussalam, highlighting the longstanding robust eco -nomic relationship between the 
People’s Republic of China and the ASEAN members States.  
4.297.   The Philippine delegation warmly welcomes and congratulates the Chinese delegation led by 
Minister Wang Went ao and Vice Minister Wang Shouwen of the Ministry of Commerce, and 
Ambassador Li Chenggang of the Permanent Mission of the 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.  
4.298.   Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the 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 concluding 
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 exchange s. These 
reflect the breadth and depth of the growing cooperation between our two countries.  
4.299.   China remained as the Philippines’ top trading partner in 2020 with total bilateral trade 
valued at USD 30.7 billion. China has been the Philippines’ top trading p artner since 2016. In the 
past five years, total bilateral trade has consistently increased despite the understandable decline in 
2020 due to the COVID -19 pandemic. China was also the Philippines’ second highest source of 
foreign investments in 2020 with t otal investments amounting to USD 314 Million.  
4.300.   The Philippines continues to value its partnership with China and is keen to pursue deeper 
and more meaningful engagements particularly in the areas of trade, investments, and economic 
cooperation. The Philip pines -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.  
4.301.   China is a politically and economically significant player in global trade. Despite the slowdown 
in growth rates caused by the COVID -19 pandemic, the Chinese economy continues to be a m ajor 
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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.302.   The Philippines recogni zes China’s 14th Five -Year Plan for Economic and Social Development 
(2021 -25), which aims to achieve “sustained and healthy” 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.  
4.303.   The Philippines also notes China’s Fi ve-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 whi ch 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.  
4.304.   Since its accession to the WTO in 2001, China has been an active p articipant in the various 
works of the WTO. It also played an important role in hosting the Informal WTO Ministerial Meeting 
in Shanghai in November 2019 where Ministers exchanged ideas on issues safeguarding the 
multilateral trading system, working toward s a successful 12th Ministerial Conference (M12) and 
supporting the necessary reform of the WTO.  
4.305.   China actively participates in preparing the MC12 outcomes by engaging in various WTO 
negotiations, including the WTO reform, fisheries subsidies, addressing t he impact of the COVID -19 
pandemic, agriculture, electronic commerce, investment facilitation for development, and domestic 
regulation in services.  
4.306.   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 subsequently the MSME package adopted in December 
2020 marking a major step forward in supporting MSMEs’ participation in international tra de. 
4.307.   The Philippines has submitted advance written questions on the TPR reports and we thank 
the delegation of China for their prompt replies.  
4.308.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with Chi na in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
CHILE  
4.309.   Chile quisiera brindar un afectuoso y fraternal saludo a la delegación de China, encabezada 
por el excelentísimo Ministro de Comercio, Sr. Wang Wentao, y a la Misión Permanente de China 
ante la OM C, en especial a su Embajador Li Chenggang, con quien esperamos seguir contribuyendo 
al fortalecimiento del sistema multilateral de comercio.  
4.310.   También quisiera felicitar a S.E. Embajadora de Sudáfrica, Sra. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, por 
su labor como ponente de  este Examen de políticas comerciales.    
4.311.   Realizo esta intervención a nombre del Embajador Francke quien no ha podido estar presente 
en este Examen ya que se encuentra presidiendo las negociaciones sobre facilitación de inversiones.  
4.312.   Chile recibe con especi al interés la realización del octavo Examen de política comercial de 
China. Resultaría difícil comprender la realidad del comercio global sin considerar el importante rol 
que China ha desempeñado en los últimos años y muy particularmente desde su incorpora ción a la 
OMC, siendo un motor importante del crecimiento económico mundial.  
4.313.   Las relaciones bilaterales entre Chile y China datan de 1970, ocasión donde Chile se convirtió 
en el primer país de América del Sur en entablar relaciones diplomáticas con China.  
4.314.   Es un vínculo que históricamente se ha caracterizado por su especial estabilidad y que ha 
demostrado ser fructífero, promoviendo conjuntamente una mayor integración a través del 
desarrollo de un diálogo político, comercial y cultural al más alto nivel.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.315.   Nuestra relación económico -comercial se estructura sobre la base de un comprehensivo 
Tratado de Libre Comercio, vigente desde el año 2006, convirtiendo a Chile en el primer país fuera 
del continente asiático en suscribir un acuerdo de esta envergadura. En e l marco de este tratado, 
se suscribió un Acuerdo Suplementario de Servicios, el que entró en vigor el año 2010, siendo el 
segundo acuerdo de esta naturaleza establecido por China. Posteriormente, en 2014 entró en vigor 
el Acuerdo Suplementario de Inversion es, marcando otro hito importante en nuestra fructífera 
relación económico -comercial. Luego en 2016, se creó la Asociación Estratégica Integral con China, 
la que permitió impulsar mecanismos de coordinación y de diálogo sectorial a nivel bilateral, siendo 
esta la consolidación de un trabajo de largo plazo que, en lo comercial, nació con la firma del TLC.  
4.316.   De este modo, el Tratado de Libre Comercio entre Chile y China se ha transformado en una 
pieza fundamental de la relación bilateral, y su exitosa implement ación y administración ha 
consolidado a China como el principal socio comercial de Chile, totalizando un intercambio comercial 
en 2020 de cerca de los USD 45.000 millones, lo que representa un 33.9% del intercambio comercial 
total de Chile.  
4.317.   Las exportacio nes a China durante el año 2020 totalizaron cerca de USD 27.400 millones, 
esto es, un 38,85% de las exportaciones totales. Y las importaciones provenientes de China, en el 
año 2020 totalizaron USD 16.390 millones, lo que representa un 27,79% del total.  
4.318.   En materia de inversión extranjera, cabe señalar que es un fenómeno relativamente 
reciente, pero que hoy ha consolidado a China como uno de los principales inversionistas extranjeros 
en Chile, en sectores tan relevantes como energía, tecnología e I+D.  
4.319.   Esta c ercanía no sólo se expresa a nivel bilateral, sino que también a nivel multilateral, 
donde participamos conjuntamente en distintas organizaciones y foros internacionales.  
4.320.   Cabe recordar que, en 1999, Chile fue el primer país latinoamericano en apoyar el ingreso 
de China a la OMC y, desde su ingreso, China se ha transformado en un actor de gran relevancia en 
esta Organización, asumiendo grandes responsabilidades, tanto a nivel de implementación de los 
Acuerdos de la OMC, como en materia de negociaciones. H oy participa en el Acuerdo sobre 
Tecnología de la Información (ATI) y es parte de Joint State Iniciatives sobre comercio electrónico, 
regulación nacional en la esfera de los servicios, facilitación de las inversiones para el desarrollo y 
MiPymes. Del mismo  modo promueve el Diálogo Informal sobre la Contaminación Producida por los 
Plásticos y ha copatrocinado propuestas como la de Comercio y Salud.  
4.321.   Valoramos el compromiso de China con el sistema multilateral de comercio, abierto, 
transparente, inclusivo, no discriminatorio y basado en normas claras, que permitan promover el 
libre intercambio de bienes y servicios. Dicho compromiso debe estar de acuerdo a los desafíos y 
tiempos actuales, especialmente por parte de aquellos que hoy día ocupan un lugar important e en 
el comercio internacional.  
4.322.   El presente Examen de Política comercial ha dado cuenta de las rápidas reacciones en 
materia de política fiscal y monetaria de China que ayudaron a mitigar las repercusiones económicas 
de la pandemia; no obstante, como resul tado de las medidas de estabilización, puede que hayan 
aumentado los riesgos para la estabilidad financiera, lo que será un importante desafío para el futuro 
próximo.  
4.323.   Por otro lado, valoramos las iniciativas de China para seguir reduciendo su proporción de  
consumo de carbón, en consonancia con los objetivos fijados para el desarrollo de la energía verde 
y con bajas emisiones de carbono establecidos en su planificación interna del sector energético.  
4.324.   Adicionalmente, vemos con gran interés como China desea ac elerar los esfuerzos para 
impulsar un paradigma de desarrollo donde las circulaciones interna e internacional se refuercen 
entre sí; y como en ese marco, apuestan por aprovechar la innovación como fuente principal de 
dinamismo, aspirando a alcanzar un mejo r equilibrio entre un mercado eficiente y un Gobierno 
eficaz, decididos a crear un entorno empresarial orientado al mercado, basado en normas e 
internacionalizado.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.325.   Para este ejercicio de Examen de política comercial, Chile ha formulado 18 preguntas, en 
áreas como: normas de origen, aranceles, medidas antidumping, procedimientos aduaneros, entre 
otros. Agradecemos profundamente las respuestas a dichas consultas.  
4.326.   Por último, deseamos a China un exitoso octavo Examen de política comercial.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.327.   New Z ealand 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 actively engaged, and supported. 
Over this transformative period, China’s economy has made considerable a dvances, spurred in part 
by the reforms tied to that accession and its integration into the global economy, delivering 
remarkable improvements to living standards at home and becoming a major engine for growth of 
the world economy.  
4.328.   The growth in the New Z ealand -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 trade 
agreement, which entered into force in 2008, continues to deliver significant benefits for both 
countries, and the FTA upgrade signed in January this year modernizes and expands the agreement.  
4.329.   Looking to the next twenty years, New Zealand encourages China to continue to advance 
trade and economic reforms and to play an active role to support and bolst er 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 comprehensive 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.  
4.330.   We welcome China’s stated commitment to continued trade liberalization, and commend the 
reforms undertaken during the review period, including such measur es 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.  
4.331.   New Zealand also recognizes China’s commitment to  regional economic integration. The 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, concluded last year, was an important development 
and promises to support the 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 deeper reforms 
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 that commitments to meet the high standards of 
the CPTPP made during the accession process will be a dhered to.  
4.332.   In recent years, the world has experienced unprecedented change due to the impact of 
COVID -19. In addition, we have seen an increase in protectionist measures which have threatened 
the integrity of the multilateral trading system. It is therefor e 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.  
4.333.   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 effective functioning of the multilateral rules -based trading system. New Zealand’s 
participation in suc h cases reflects the importance we place on upholding international rules and 
norms and ensuring international trade rules are fairly applied by others.  
4.334.   More broadly, New Zealand is concerned with trade measures by WTO members that cause 
widespread disrup tion to trade and lack transparency and underlines its concern in this regard about 
the actions undertaken against a range of Australian exports, including wine, lobster, and beef.  
These measures risk to undermine the rules -based trading system on which w e 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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.335.   The WTO Trade Policy Review pro cess is an important transparency and review mechanism. 
We appreciate this opportunity to seek clarification from China on aspects of its trade and economic 
policies.  
4.336.   We welcome the efforts China has made to address climate change issues within its economi c 
and trade policy framework, as outlined in the Secretariat’s report, including industrial restructuring, 
energy conservation and efficiency, and the establishment 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.   
4.337.   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 have been outstanding 
for several years. Noting all Members’ shared interest in ensuring the transparency on which the 
WTO system depends to operate eff ectively, and our comments to this effect at China’s last Trade 
Policy Review, New Zealand encourages China to redouble its efforts to provide timely and 
comprehensive notifications going forward.  
4.338.   Similarly, New Zealand welcomes China’s latest notificatio n on subsidies covering the years 
2019 and 2020 but notes the Secretariat’s comments about the difficulty of obtaining a clear overall 
picture of China’s support programmes given gaps in these notifications. New Zealand is particularly 
interested in inform ation on how China will ensure transparency of its existing subsidy policies; and, 
in support of an ambitious outcome on fisheries subsidies at MC12, how China intends to reform 
subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing.  
4.339.   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, including in its implementa tion of the 
UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.  
4.340.   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, review 
and question th e 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.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.341.   The United Kingdom’s Trade Secretary, Anne Marie Trevelyan, has asked me to relay her 
thanks to the Chair, as well as our discussant Ambassador Mlumbi -Peter, for facilitating thi s 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 delegation from Beijing, 
headed up by H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao.  
4.342.   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 is expected to increa se 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 achievement.  
4.343.   All of this is p ossible 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 wi th 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 direction of travel an d look forward to seeing how that commitment is 
made concrete through the negotiations and in wider discussions at the WTO.   WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.344.   The United Kingdom recognizes 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 domes tic regulation JSI, as well 
as the Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics. Changes 
made by China to reform and liberalize will benefit both WTO members and Chinese citizens alike. 
And they also support China’s own economic development.  
4.345.   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 accelerate. This will give more meaning to 
China’s own calls for an open, rules -based, t ransparent, and non -discriminatory trading system.  
4.346.   I would now like highlight several areas that the United Kingdom believes require China’s 
attention and action.  
4.347.   Chinese firms continue to enjoy much higher levels of access in overseas markets than their 
foreign counterparts enjoy within China. This lack of reciprocity is accompanied by a growing 
perception of unfairness amongst many WTO members which should also be of concern to China.  
4.348.   The challenge is not merely one of formal market access. Despite impr ovements in detection 
and seizure of infringing goods, counterfeits continue to be produced and exported at high levels. 
Foreign businesses continue to report significant concerns relating to equal treatment with local 
companies, inconsistent application o f regulations, subjective licensing regimes, opaque 
phytosanitary requirements, hidden subsidies, and restricted public procurement.  
4.349.   As the WTO Secretariat’s report makes clear to us, the size of China’s economy and 
government support programmes to industr ial 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.  
4.350.   We are also concerned about the centrality of state -owned enterprises to China’s industrial 
strategies, a nd the opacity of their operations. These SOEs number at around 326,000 and account 
for over 20 of China’s 25 largest 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.  
4.351.   The onus is on China to  be much more transparent in demonstrating that state -owned 
enterprises operate as normal market actors.  
4.352.   Increased transparency is key to raising confidence in China’s policy intentions. With that in 
mind, we call on the Chinese Government to commit to pub lishing all materials related its three -year 
reform plan for its state -owned enterprises, so that it is clear what is and is not being directed by 
government.  
4.353.   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 Countervailing Measures.  
4.354.   We also want to highlight that we closely monitor reports of China’s trade actions being 
deliberately targeted against goods of some countries 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, whic h 
it says it does. This is another area where China could act with greater transparency.  
4.355.   Forced labour, wherever and whenever it occurs, is unacceptable. We call on China to ratify 
and effectively implement the ILO Forced Labour Convention including its 20 14 Protocol and the 
Abolition of Forced Labour Convention. We will continue to monitor Chinese actions through the WTO 
and in the ILO.  
4.356.   To conclude, China’s transformation in the last 20 years has been remarkable, and China 
should take great credit for tha t. But as a trading superpower, China now has a special responsibility WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  to ensure it practices free and fair trade. The United Kingdom looks forward to continuing working 
with China with a sense of shared responsibility to safeguard and strengthen the multi lateral trading 
system, of which we are both a part.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.357.   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 discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter 
for her insightful remarks, and the Secretariat for its informative report.  
4.358.   We are China’s the 6th largest tr ading partner, the 2nd import source and the 10th export 
destination, with trade volume over USD 166 billion in 2020.  
4.359.   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 drivi ng forces of the global economic growth and has been 
recovered from the pandemic of COVID -19 relatively well, with its economic growth projected to 6% 
this year. We commend this achievement.  
4.360.   In addition, we would also like to make the following comments.  
4.361.   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 en courage China to 
continue its endeavour toward this direction.  
4.362.   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 
restrictions that are inconsistent with WTO rules.  
4.363.   On investment liberalization, China took steps to allow increased foreign participation in 
certain sectors, such as the mi ning 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 mark et-oriented 
policies.  
4.364.   We learned from the report that China continues to reduce its coal consumption, in line with 
objectives set forth in the “13th Five -Year Plan for Energy Development.” However, we also noted 
that recently, power supply shortages spread  to many provinces, including Jiangsu, Zhejiang and 
Guangdong, where many factories of our investors 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 
difficul ty while pursuing the goal of sustainable development.  
4.365.   We thank China for responding to our written 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 responses 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.  
4.366.   Our Mission stands ready to engage constructively with the delegation of China on various 
multilateral topics.  
4.367.   We wish China a constructive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.368.   The European Union welcomes China’s Trade Policy Review at an important milestone - two 
decades since China’s accession to the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.369.   Some of us present here today can remember how significant WTO 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.  
4.370.   China’s WTO Membership had created expectations of further liberalization and of m ovement 
towards a full market -based economy. We were looking forward to the reform process and opening 
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 co mparable 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 trade.  
4.371.   The Europea n 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.  
4.372.   The EU appreciates China’s efforts to play a construct ive 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.  
4.373.   However, despite these contributions, Chi na should step up its commitment in a number of 
ways.  
4.374.   One way for China to show leadership would be by refraining from claiming benefits that 
would correspond to a developing country in ongoing negotiations.  
4.375.   Another area highlighted by the Report is the n eed to improve compliance with notification 
obligations across the board, including on industrial subsidies and agricultural support.  
4.376.   The EU also reminds China of its commitment, in the context of its GPA accession bid, to 
implement a transparent and non -discriminatory public procurement framework.  
4.377.   A longstanding 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 responsible 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.  
4.378.   The European Union also wishes to refer to some other worryin g 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. However, these c hanges are insufficient – investment restrictions remain in a range 
of sectors, and EU IP right holders continue facing difficulties for effective enforcement.  
4.379.   Moreover, these positive changes do not alter the overall policy direction that we discern.  
4.380.   European businesses are concerned about the increasing politicization of China’s business 
environment. Economic pressure on companies’ operations that seem motivated by political 
considerations runs against the spirit of the WTO.  
4.381.   Another concern is China’s ex pansive use of an excessively broad concept of national 
security, negatively affecting foreign companies.  
4.382.   One example is China’s new measures on data security, privacy and critical infrastructure. 
While the EU acknowledges the need for effective cybersecur ity measures, these should be 
proportionate, technology -neutral and based on objective standards.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.383.   China’s stringent Covid -19-related restrictions are another cause for concern for EU traders. 
The EU encourages China to review its travel restrictions and e xtend trade -facilitating measures to 
food and agriculture products in line with international scientific consensus.  
4.384.   Finally, the EU is worried that China’s new “dual circulation” strategy will lead to further 
reversal of economic reform and market 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 interven tion generating competitive distortions in China and across the globe.  
4.385.   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 responsibility, a co llective 
effort towards modernizing the WTO rulebook is necessary.  
4.386.   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 economic recovery 
and growth, as well as a level playing field for all of its Members.  
4.387.   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 statement today 
reflects the value the Union attaches to a trade and investment relation with China that is rules -
based, both multilaterally and bilaterally.  
ICELAND  
4.388.   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.  
4.389.   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.  
4.390.   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 the Trade Policy R eview report.  
4.391.   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.  
4.392.   Iceland appreciates China’s stated commitment 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 sectors.  
4.393.   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 be addressed with an inclusive approach 
towards economic recovery. Ensuring that women’s full economic rights will be a factored 
contribution towards sus tainable social economic development.  
4.394.   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 economic 
empowerment from 2017.  
4.395.   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 gender -responsive trade policies.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.396.   This is a positive trend as the trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share 
best practices and experiences relating to policies and programs that aim at women’s social and 
economic empowerment and full inclusion in trade.  
4.397.   Iceland has submitted i n advance written questions on the participation of women in the 
economy of China. Iceland welcomes China’s replies - the answers will be useful as we continue to 
gather information on best practices.  
4.398.   We wish the delegation of China every success for thei r Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.399.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very pleased to take part in the eighth Trade Policy Review 
of China and wishes to extend a very warm welcome to its distinguished delegation headed by 
H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Mini ster of Commerce.  
4.400.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia thanks China and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed and 
comprehensive 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.  
4.401.   Despite the major impact of the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic on the China’s economy 
which caused the economy to be contracted by 6.8% in the early 2020, fiscal and monetary policies 
taken by the governme nt in facing these challenges helped the economy to recover starting from 
the mid -2020 which resulted in a GDP growth of 2.3% in 2020 and expected growth of 6% in 2021.  
4.402.   China accords a leading role to the rules -based multilateral trading system and regiona l 
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.  
4.403.   We also praise China for its performance in many areas such as its continued expansion of 
its international trade and investments, its performance in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) both 
inward and outward, adoption of new Fo reign Investment Law and new Export Control Law, 
availability of various tax incentives to foreign -invested enterprises, reduction of its tariff -rate in 
nearly all product categories, liberalization in mining sector and financial sector to increase foreign  
participation, its revision to the various laws and regulations related to TBT and SPS, its reforms to 
the intellectual 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.  
4.404.   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 th e 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 remains very active in strengthen the economic relations and trade cooperation as well 
as enhancing the investment opportunities in the two cou ntries.  
4.405.   China as an active Member of this Organization 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.  
4.406.   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 delegations for the excellent cooperation 
between our two missions which serves our mutual interests and thank them for their active 
engagement  in all WTO activities.  
4.407.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  BRUNEI  DARUSSALAM  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.408.   It is a great pleasure to warmly welcome China’s delegation headed by His Excellency 
Mr. Wang Wentao to its 8 th Trade Policy Review.  
4.409.   2021 is a special year for ASEAN and China, as we mark 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 China’s largest trading partner 
in 2020. China and ASEAN continue to work closely to expand our trade and investment cooperation, 
including through en hancing the ASEAN -China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA), as well as through 
the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP).  
4.410.   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 2010, 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 China 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 an d China each other’s top trading 
partner.  
4.411.   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.  
4.412.   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.  
4.413.   ASEAN acknowledges the assistance and contribution by China to ASEAN such as 
ASEAN -China Coope ration 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 RMB 50 million (USD 7.3 million) to support the implementation of the ACFTA 
and other contribution.  
4.414.   ASEAN also acknowledges the important contributions by China in strengthening the World 
Trade Organization (WTO), including on the subject of WTO reform. Together with China, ASEAN 
reaffirms our strong commitment to uph old an open, inclusive, transparent, non -discriminatory and 
rules-based multilateral trading system as embodied in the WTO.   
4.415.   Some ASEAN member 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.  
4.416.   Finally, we would like to conclude our remarks by expressing, once again, our profound 
appreciation to the delegation of China for their hard work. Our appreciation also goes to H.E. Li 
Chenggang, 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.  
MALAYSIA  
4.417.   Malaysia associates herself with the ASEAN statement  delivered by Brunei.  
4.418.   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, China 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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.419.   During this review period, we observe that China, under the leadership of President 
Xi Jinping, h as adopted socialism with Chinese Characteristics for developing a New Era, in which 
China has been continually liberalizing and facilitating trade and investment.   
4.420.   In this respect, we join others to commend China for actively engaging in the WTO processe s 
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).  
4.421.   Malaysia -China bilateral trade relation has expanded over the yea rs 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.  
4.422.   On investment, as of June 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.  
4.423.   For the current review, Malaysia h as 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.  
4.424.   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 interest.  
4.425.   We wish the delegation of China a productive and successful eighth Trade Policy Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.426.   At the outset, the Bangladesh delegation welcomes H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of 
Commerce and Head of Delegation for his introductory presentation 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.  
4.427.   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 s tability. Inflation is 
within limits and FDI inflows have increased significantly. We applaud 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 2 018, Chinese economy has been a major driver of global growth. 
Real GDP growth rates fell from 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 activities China’s growt h 
is projected to reach 6% again in 2021.  
4.428.   We notice that the long -term structural shift from agriculture and industry towards services 
continued in China's economy during the review period. Services now make up some 55% of GDP.  
4.429.   For China, the high GDP gr owth rates and market -oriented reforms resulted in remarkable 
progress on poverty alleviation 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 ec onomy began to recover thanks to increased public investment and international trade.  
4.430.   As one 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 WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  accounted for only USD 0.60 billion while imports from China added up to a mammoth 
USD 11.49  billion.  
4.431.   Bangladesh and China also cooperate closely in fostering a rule -based, fair and equitable 
multilat eral 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 betwee n 2011 and 2019. 
Bangladesh received a net FDI of USD 1.159 billion in FY19 from China, making it one of the largest 
recipients in South Asia. Our energy sector has been the largest recipient of Chinese investment in 
recent years.  
4.432.   Bangladesh delegation ex presses 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:  
4.433.   first, if the Chinese Govern ment plans to implement the “Preferential Rules of Origin for 
Least Developed Countries” decision 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 expectati on from the 12th Ministerial 
Conference.  
4.434.   We thank Chinese delegation in advance for the responses to our queries.  
4.435.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of China a productive and successful TPR. My delegation 
will continue to work closely with the Chinese de legation led by Ambassador H.E. Mr. Li Chenggang 
to strengthen multilateral trading system as well as enhance our bilateral trade ties.  
INDONESIA  
4.436.   First, Indonesia would like to associate  its statement with ASEAN statement read by 
Ambassador Mazlizah Pengir an 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.  
4.437.   Indonesia would also like to convey its appreciation to Chair of Trade P olicy 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 
our appreciation to WTO Secretariat and the delega tion of China for their extensive reports in 
conducting the 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.438.   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 coopera tion, and China’s participation 
in the multilateral trading system has played significant role.  
4.439.   Indonesia also appreciates China’s active contribution, engagement and continued support 
in G-33 to address challenges and issue of our common concerns in agri culture trade negotiation.  
4.440.   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 trade 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.  
4.441.   In addition, China has become Indonesia’s No.1 major trading partner, serving as the 
country’s largest export and import m arket 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 val ue 
of Indonesia’s imports from China recorded at USD 44.9 billion in 2019 and USD 39.6 billion in 2020.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.442.   Indonesia’s top 5 products exported 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 is 
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, trade between China and 
Indonesia has been growing and Indonesia's trade deficit with China has been approaching balance.  
4.443.   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 Compr ehensive Economic 
Cooperation (RCEP), which aimed for facilitation of trade and investment, enhanced transparency in 
trade and investment, broaden and deepen the engagement among parties and to enhance parties’ 
participation in economic development of the region.  
4.444.   In this Trade Policy Review, Indonesia would like to highlight some of China’s policies and 
measures.  
4.445.   Referring to Secretariat report, Indonesia learns that China has issued regulation to maintain 
import prohibition with complex requirements and pr ocedures on wild animal to the pandemic while 
it also applied several incentives programmes which provided for certain sectors. Indonesia also 
notice that China has notified its new regulations, namely Decree 248 and Decree 249 that require 
the importers t o include a registration number on packaging. Indonesia have submitted written 
questions that reflect our concerns, and we look forward to China’s responses and further clarification 
on the timeline of implementation, transition period, procedures and guid eline on these Decrees.  
4.446.   Indonesia is also interested to learn China’s legislative and regulatory regime concerning 
Government Procurement; standards and technical requirements; state trading, state -owned 
enterprises and privatization; and trade remedies re gulations, including safeguard, antidumping and 
countervailing measures. Additionally, Indonesia is keen to understand the required registration for 
Chinese trademark policy; financial services regulation, including regulatory development in 
banking, insur ance, 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.  
4.447.   With respect to ongoing negotiation in the WTO, we appreciate that Chin a continues to 
support the necessary reform work to improve the WTO’s functioning, including the importance of 
making progress on enhancing transparency and supporting the function of dispute settlement 
system.  
4.448.   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 
cooperation in several key areas, including on the Covid -19 handling. In this regard, Indonesia 
anticipates that this cooperati on will optimize trade and investment potential, reduce barriers, and 
allow for stronger economic growth between the two countries.  
4.449.   To conclude our remarks, we would like to once again commend China for its achievements 
and the way forward, as well as to e xpress our appreciation to H.E. Li Chenggang, the Permanent 
Representative of China and the delegation of China. We look forward to continuing to deepen our 
bilateral economic and trade relations. Finally, we wish China a successful outcome of this eighth 
Trade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.450.   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 opp ortunity to commend Ambassador Li Chenggang for all that he is 
doing in Geneva. I also thank Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her insightful 
comments as discussant and the Secretariat for its detailed report.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.451.   My delegation appreciates Ch ina’s continued efforts to liberalize its economy, notably in the 
services sector, further open up to foreign investments and implement tariff reductions. I take 
particular note of China’s gradual removal of restrictions 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 services trade” that was implemented in August this year. We hope that the same 
level of services liberalization will soon be expa nded nationwide.  
4.452.   With the 30th anniversary of our diplomatic ties fast approaching, Korea and China continue 
to engage in robust economic interactions. 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 continuation of 
essential business activities by adopting a “fast track2 system. More and more companies are also 
utilizing the Korea -China Free Trade Agreement.  
4.453.   Against this positive backdrop, I wish to mention a few specific areas of interest and concerns 
for Korea.  
4.454.   China’s legal framework for intellectual property rights has been improving. This is 
encouraging but we see that a busive practices by private commercial actors that disrupt market 
order, such as bad -faith trademark registration and trademark abuse, still persist. These practices, 
if allowed to continue, run the risk of hampering seriously a fair business environment a nd the 
protection of consumers. Korea calls on China to strengthen the supervision and enforcement efforts 
over actions that infringe upon intellectual property rights.  
4.455.   Regarding technical standards, excessive information labelling is often required that g oes 
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 comments 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.  
4.456.   Even in the midst of the pandemic, 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 shifting to a negative list system. It is our hope that the agreement will 
be concluded soon and provide important momentum to liberalize further China’s services and 
investment sector.  
4.457.   In 2019, China circulated its 6th revised market ac cess offer in the context of its bid to join 
the GPA. Korea hopes to see China’s GPA accession process completed as soon as possible through 
close cooperation with Members.  
4.458.   This year marks the 20th anniversary of China’s accession to the WTO, and I highly  
appreciate China’s contributions to the multilateral trading system. As we seek to overcome 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 s ustainable development. In this 
regard, Korea hopes that as a beneficiary of the multilateral 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  
4.459.   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 fo r his comprehensive opening statement. 
I also take this opportunity to welcome the Chinese delegation in Geneva led by its Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative, H.E. Mr. Li Chenggang. We also thank Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative H.E. Ms. Xolelw a Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa, for her insightful observations as a 
discussant, and the Secretariat and the Government of China for the reports prepared for the Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.460.   China with its large share in international trade and world economy is a key driver o f global 
trade and growth. Therefore, it’s role in world trade and policies, both in the 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 t he 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 relations with 
China.  
4.461.   First, the bilateral trade is skewed in favour of China, with India’s trade deficit at 
USD 45.91  billion in 2020, is large and growing. This is the singl e 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 C hinese authorities in this regard.  
4.462.   Second, exports from India, particularly the agriculture products have long faced significant 
challenges and market entry barriers due to the stringent and often opaque 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 mangoe s, 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 & th e 
SPS Committees in November 2020 require registration with the GACC of all food manufacturers, 
processors and storage facilities which handle food exported to China. Another recent decree No.353 
requires the list of exporting establishments to be shared b y October 31, 2021. These above decrees 
have significantly expanded the scope of products covered and also put onerous requirements on 
exporters and the Indian Export Inspection Agencies. We request the Chinese authorities to review 
them or at least provid e sufficient time for compliance.  
4.463.   Third, we have been concerned over the wide -scale use of non -tariff barriers (NTBs) by the 
Chinese authorities on Indian agricultural 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 unscientific practice, without even providing 
the technical details of the tests carried out and a lso destroying several consignments of the exports, 
causing significant financial losses to our exporters. What is even more astounding is that the 
Chinese authorities 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 contamination as NTB to deny exports 
from India. We request the Chinese authorities to immediately ref rain from such actions and allow 
free flow of trade for the mutual benefit of our people. We are also concerned over the disruptions 
caused to our bilateral trade due 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 Air Services 
Agreement.  
4.464.   Fourth, India is one of the largest manufacturers of generic medicine s 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 from 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 
generic 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.  
4.465.   Fifth, in the services sector, Indian companies provide IT and IT -enabled services to a large 
number of companies incl uding a majority of the Fortune 500. This has brought about a 
transformational change in the competitiveness of manufacturing and banking entities that have 
accessed these services. However, despite the significant potential of the Indian IT sector to prov ide WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 services 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 restrictions, which also acts as a barrier to services trade.  
4.466.   Seventh, our businesses continue to fa ce 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 during the Review period, to deny export licenses without proper justification and as 
a possible  economic coercive measure.  
4.467.   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 to qualify for government procurements and tenders remain vague, which often 
works to the dis advantage of foreign companies.  
4.468.   We request and encourage the Chinese authorities to look into the above issues, with a view 
to resolving them early.  
4.469.   Chair, India and China have been working closely in various fora such as the BRICS, SCO, 
G-20 and in a vari ety 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 co lleagues 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.  
REPÚBLICA  DOMINICANA  
4.470.   En pr imer lugar, deseamos dar la bienvenida al Sr. Wang Wentao, Ministro de Comercio, y 
a su delegación.  
4.471.   Asimismo, felicitamos al ponente, Excma. Sra. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Embajadora de 
Sudáfrica, y a la Secretaría por la preparación del informe.  
4.472.   La Repúblic a Dominicana y la República de China mantienen excelentes relaciones. En 
ocasión de la apertura de relaciones diplomáticas entre nuestros dos países se suscribieron unos 
18 acuerdos o memorándum de entendimiento.  
4.473.   Están entrando al mercado chino los siguie ntes productos dominicanos: el ferroníquel, 
instrumentos de medicina, cirugía o veterinaria, calzado, minerales de zinc y sus concentrados, papel 
o cartón, ron, tabaco, café, el banano, cacao, coco, carne y otros productos agropecuarios, y el 
comercio entr e los dos países ha mantenido un alto grado de fluidez.  La relación comercial bilateral 
no cuenta con ningún acuerdo comercial. Ambos países llevan a cabo su comercio bajo el principio 
de nación más favorecida, debido a su membresía en la Organización Mun dial del Comercio (OMC).  
4.474.   El intercambio comercial para el periodo enero 2015 julio 2021, ascendió a la cifra de 
USD 18,714 millones, siendo el 95% importaciones de bienes desde China y el restante 5% a las 
exportaciones dominicanas. Las importaciones chin as han tenido un crecimiento constante, 
situándose en el lugar número 2 del total de las importaciones dominicanas a nivel individual. La 
República Dominicana es el mayor socio comercial de China en el Caribe. Los principales productos 
importados son teléf onos celulares, motocicletas, televisores, instrumentos y aparatos para medida 
o control del caudal o nivel de agua, artículos de grifería y órganos reguladores para tubería, 
manufacturas de hierro o acero, productos textiles acolchados en pieza, transform adores de tipo 
seco de potencia, entre otros.  
4.475.   Durante 2001 -2017, el comercio bilateral se multiplicó por 47 veces, debido principalmente 
al crecimiento de las importaciones procedentes de China.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.476.   Las exportaciones dominicanas hacia China pasaron de una medi a de 10 millones en el 
quinquenio 2001 -2005 a promediar 146 md en el quinquenio 2013 -2017. Sin embargo, durante el 
mismo periodo, las importaciones procedentes de China pasaron de 202 md a una media de 
2,326  md durante el quinquenio 2013 -17. 
4.477.   Felicitamos a China por haber adoptado diversas medidas de facilitación del comercio con 
respecto a los requisitos de registro, documentación e inspección de las importaciones, así como en 
respuesta a la pandemia de COVID -19. La ventanilla única nacional para el comerci o internacional 
ha sido ampliada y se ha reducido el plazo global de despacho de aduana de las importaciones en 
todo el país.  
4.478.   Debemos destacar que, con respecto al régimen de exportación, a raíz de la pandemia de 
COVID -19, las autoridades chinas adoptaron medidas para simplificar aún más los procedimientos 
aduaneros, incluidas las inspecciones y la cuarentena, y reducir los derechos portuarios aplicables a 
los exportadores de dispositivos médicos.  
4.479.   Agradecemos y valoramos que China considere las vacunas con tra la COVID -19 como un 
bien público global. Las vacunas chinas han estado disponibles a nivel mundial y han apoyado al 
mecanismo COVAX. La República Dominicana ha recibido a mayo del 2021, la cantidad de 4 millones 
de dosis de la vacuna china y ha podido vacunar a un alto porcentaje de su población con la misma.  
4.480.   Finalmente, queremos agradecer las oportunas respuestas de China a los planteamientos 
realizados por la República Dominicana sobre distintos puntos contenidos en el informe.  
TURKEY  
4.481.   Turkey joins oth er Members in welcoming the delegation of China headed by Minister of 
Commerce, H.E. Wang Wentao.  
4.482.   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 Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her enlightening comments.  
4.483.   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.  
4.484.   Since its previous TPR, price stability has remained as the main goal of its monetary policy.  
4.485.   The long -term structural changes in China’s economy continued during the review period. 
And now the services sector makes up around 55% of G DP of the country.  
4.486.   China continued to aim at increasing international trade and investments according to its 
Five-Year Plans.  
4.487.   Rapid economic development and increasing exports over the last decades lifted hundreds 
of millions of people out of poverty. Its approach to the globalization helped China to expand its 
middle class.  
4.488.   Furthermore, efforts undertaken by the country to addr ess climate change issues are a good 
start for global net zero goals.  
4.489.   China is an active participant in the Joint Statement Initiatives on e -commerce; investment 
facilitation; MSMEs; and domestic regulation in services.  
4.490.   China has a very critical role to play in our efforts to restore the strong multilateral trading 
system which existed during the previous decades.  
4.491.   Turkey pursues a multi -dimensional foreign policy. We would like to develop and further 
strengthen good relations with all countries in Asia, i ncluding China.   WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.492.   This year we marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations 
with China. Our economic relations developed gradually during this period.  
4.493.   As one of the main actors in its region, China also has an important plac e in our “Asia Anew” 
initiative.  
4.494.   However, we believe that our trade and economic relations can be further developed.  
4.495.   Although China ranks second in Turkey’s foreign trade, the trade balance is heavily in China’s 
favour. We want to narrow bilateral trade de ficit and establish balanced and sustainable trade 
relations with China.  
4.496.   The SWAP Agreement signed between our Central Banks was renewed this year and 
increased currency SWAP facility to USD 6 billion.  
4.497.   We hope that this agreement will assist to further in crease our bilateral trade.  
4.498.   In concluding, we thank the Chinese delegation in advance for their replies to our questions 
on specific aspects of its trade policy.  
4.499.   We wish China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
LAO PDR 
4.500.   At the outset, Lao PDR would like to extend our warmest welcome to China’s delegation led 
by H.E. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce to the 8th Trade Policy Review China.  
4.501.   I would like to thank the Government of the People Republic of China and the WTO 
Secretariat for the preparation of comprehensive reports for this review, especially under the 
circumstances of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.502.   My thanks also go to the discussant, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, for her insightful 
observations and introduction.  
4.503.   The Lao PDR associate itself with the ASEAN statement delivered earlier by 
Brunei  Darussalam.  
4.504.   I would not repeat what has already been reported in the Secretariat report and the 
Government report of China which provided a good illustration of the changes and d evelopments 
since the last TPR of China. Today, I just wish to share with you some points as follows.  
4.505.   Lao PDR and China have shared common culture traits, enjoyed robust bilateral relations, 
and worked cooperatively at different levels. Both sides have the  synergy to further deepen and 
expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including economics, transportation, education, 
natural resources, environment, and energy. These partnerships have contributed not only to our 
two countries but also to the sus tainable prosperity in ASEAN.  
4.506.   Lao PDR is pleased to highlight the favourable growth of bilateral trade and investment. For 
our bilateral trade relations. China is the Lao PDR’s 2nd largest two -way trading partners. The total 
two-way merchandise trade betwe en Lao PDR and China grew by 8.1% from USD 1,903 million in 
2016 to USD 2,595 million in 2020, based on preliminary Lao data (Department of Import and 
Export, Ministry of Industry and Commerce).  
4.507.   In terms of the investment, China is the first largest invest ment in Lao PDR. Up to now there 
are 883 projects of Chinese enterprises in Lao PDR, with a total value of USD 12,913 million. These 
projects cover numerous sectors, including agriculture, industries, handicraft, and mining, 
Electricity, bringing mutual be nefits to both of our economies. Lao PDR hopes that our bilateral trade 
and investment will continue to grow to further strengthen our economic relations.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.508.   From regional cooperation and bilateral perspective, the Lao PDR would like to congratulate 
China for  providing its invaluable support and cooperation to Lao PDR and thank China for a closed 
cooperation with Lao PDR and other ASEAN member States, as well as the 5 partner countries in 
concluding the negotiations and signing of the RCEP Agreement on 15 Nove mber 2020, which is a 
strong message on our region’s support to the rule -based multilateral trading system.  
4.509.   Lao PDR is of the view that this TPR will provide an important opportunity for China to review 
its trade policy in making a great achievement for t he international trade and also to provide an 
important platform for Lao PDR to explore the possibility in improving bilateral trade and investment 
relation with China.  
4.510.   Lao PDR is confident that with maintaining the momentum of its reform agenda, China wil l 
achieve its target to reach the economic expansion of its period and we believe these priorities will 
be on track with China's efforts to succeed in its economic development in according with National 
Program.  
4.511.   The Lao PDR commends China, particularly H.E Ambassador LI Chenggang, Permanent 
Mission of People Republic of China, and his staff for the good cooperation in every level and strong 
supporters of the multilateral trading system and playing an important rol e in WTO negotiation and 
reform process.  
4.512.   Taking this opportunity, I would like to express our since thank to China for its invaluable 
support and cooperation in technical, capacity building and other assistance extended to Lao PDR.  
4.513.   We wish China a great success in its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
PANAMÁ  
4.514.   Deseo saludar atentamente a Su Excelencia Wang Wentao, Ministro de Comercio, a Su 
Excelencia Wang Shouwen, Viceministro y Representante Adjunto de Comercio Internacional y a Su 
Excelencia Li Chenggang, Embajad or Representante Permanente y a toda la delegación china por su 
destacada preparación para este octavo Examen de las políticas comerciales de la República Popular 
China. Deseo también saludar a la Embajadora Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, ponente en este Examen, y 
agradecer a la Secretaría por sus informes.  
4.515.   Panamá otorga especial atención a las relaciones con China. Con relación a la balanza 
comercial bilateral, esta osciló entre B/.1,107 y B/.1,823 millones de dólares, la cual muestra ser 
deficitaria para Panamá; pero que ha mostrado ir disminuyendo la brecha del comercio entre ambos 
países, debido a que las exportaciones de Panamá en los dos últimos años han ido aumentando en 
comparación al año 2018.  
4.516.   China es actualmente uno de los mayores usuarios del Canal de P anamá y uno de los más 
importantes socios económicos y comerciales.  
4.517.   Las exportaciones panameñas se concentran en productos como los minerales de cobre y 
sus concentrados, harina de pescado, carne bovina, maderas aserrados y cueros y pieles curtidos; 
entre otros.  
4.518.   Entre nuestras importaciones se destacan productos como: partes para teléfonos, incluidos 
teléfonos móviles; aparatos para la recepción, conversión y transmisión o regeneración de voz, 
imagen u otros datos, entre otros.  
4.519.   Durante el periodo objeto d e examen, China continúa impulsando la ampliación del comercio 
internacional y las inversiones, como se indica en los planes quinquenales y diversas medidas 
administrativas. Los programas "Made in China 2025" (Hecho en China 2025) e "Internet Plus", 
ambos puestos en marcha en 2015 son las principales iniciativas de China para promover el sector 
manufacturero.  
4.520.   China adoptó una nueva Ley de Inversión Extranjera, con el objetivo de mejorar el entorno 
empresarial a los inversores extranjeros y asegurar que par ticipen en la competencia de mercado 
en pie de igualdad. Con arreglo a la legislación, los inversores están protegidos frente a la WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  expropiación, las restricciones a las remesas transfronterizas, la infracción de los derechos de 
propiedad intelectual (DPI) y la transferencia forzosa de tecnología.  
4.521.   En otros temas, reconocemos los esfuerzos de China en resolver los problemas sobre el 
cambio climático. China a su vez aplica medidas para la reestructuración industrial, la optimización 
de la estructura energétic a, la conservación y la eficiencia energéticas, y el establecimiento de un 
mercado para el comercio de derechos de emisión de carbono.  
4.522.   Panamá imprime gran importancia a los temas relacionados al cambio climático, y es uno 
de los tres países en el mundo, q ue están clasificados como "carbono negativo  
4.523.   China sigue reduciendo su proporción de consumo de carbón, en consonancia con los 
objetivos fijados para el desarrollo de la energía verde y con bajas emisiones de carbono establecidos 
en el Decimotercer Plan Qu inquenal de Desarrollo del Sector Energético. Por otro lado, preocupa la 
continua dependencia en el carbón para la producción de energía.  
4.524.   Con respecto al régimen de exportación, a raíz de la pandemia de COVID -19, las autoridades 
chinas adoptaron medidas pa ra simplificar aún más los procedimientos aduaneros, incluidas las 
inspecciones y la cuarentena, y reducir los derechos portuarios aplicables a los exportadores de 
dispositivos médicos.  
4.525.   Las exportaciones disminuyeron en el primer semestre de 2020 debido a  la pandemia de 
COVID -19, pero posteriormente registraron un fuerte crecimiento. China fue la primera potencia 
manufacturera en reanudar sus operaciones tras la primera ola de cierres mundiales, y principal 
proveedor de equipo de protección personal y de p roductos de electrónica relacionados con el 
teletrabajo.  
4.526.   Al igual que ha ocurrido en otras economías, la pandemia de COVID -19 provocó una drástica 
disminución de los vuelos internacionales y nacionales de pasajeros desde febrero de 2020. Solo se 
ha recupe rado el segmento de vuelos nacionales de pasajeros. China ha adoptado diversas medidas 
para apoyar a los sectores del transporte aéreo y marítimo a raíz del brote de COVID -19.  
4.527.   Destacamos la participación de la delegación china en los diferentes comités de  la OMC y en 
las iniciativas relativas a las declaraciones conjuntas sobre la facilitación de las inversiones para el 
desarrollo; las microempresas y las pequeñas y medianas empresas; y la reglamentación nacional 
en la esfera de los servicios.  
4.528.   En los tema s de transparencia, China presentó notificaciones a la OMC en el periodo objeto 
de examen. No obstante, siguen pendientes algunas notificaciones, incluidas las relativas a las 
empresas comerciales del Estado y la ayuda interna.  
4.529.   En otros temas de alto inte rés, China es un contribuyente importante en el programa de 
trabajo sobre el comercio electrónico. En el sector de servicios, son notables los desarrollos en 
materia de telecomunicaciones, la ciberseguridad, la eliminación de ciertas restricciones a la 
participación de inversión extranjera en el sector de reaseguros, y eliminación futura de restricciones 
similares en el sector financiero.  
4.530.   Compartimos varias prioridades en la OMC; por ejemplo: como integrantes del Grupo de 
Miembros del Artículo 12, obramos p or mayor paridad entre los compromisos adquiridos por los 
Miembros que se adhirieron a la OMC y los de sus Miembros originales. China juega un importante 
papel en las negociaciones sobre subvenciones a la pesca, tema de mucha importancia también para 
Panam á. 
4.531.   Panamá aprovecha la ocasión para reconocer el compromiso de China con el sistema 
multilateral de comercio, reiterado hoy por el Ministro Wang, sus iniciativas y el liderazgo mostrado 
en los últimas Conferencias Ministeriales, y la notable actividad de s u delegación ante la OMC. En 
particular, nos gustaría reconocer el compromiso de China con la Mesa Redonda Anual para las 
Adhesiones a la OMC, un tema de gran importancia para Panamá.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.532.   Saludamos los excelentes vínculos existentes entre ambos países, promovi endo una relación 
política, diplomática, comercial, cultural, de cooperación y de educación, enmarcada en un ambiente 
de respeto, cordialidad y espíritu de colaboración recíproco.  
4.533.   Panamá desea a China un exitoso examen comercial, y anticipamos una reforzad a relación 
comercial bilateral en el futuro.  
CAMBODIA  
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 work s in conducting this Trade Policy Review (TPR).   
4.535.   Our special thanks also go the discussant, Her Excellency Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter 
of South Africa, for her insightful assessment and constructive remarks. We highly appreciate the 
reports prepared by the TPR Division and China which are available for this Review.  
4.536.   At the outset, Cambodia associates itself with the statement of ASE AN 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 rema rkable economic 
growth at annual average 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 t he principles of trust and mutual benefits. 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 2019, Chinese investment is worth USD 3.7 billion, accounting to about 39.5% of 
total FDI inflow. Bilateral trade in 2020  is worth USD 8.1 billion, representing an increase of 8.11% 
in export by Cambodia from 2019. To further strengthen this trade relations, Cambodia and China 
also pledged to 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 benefits 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 alleviation. 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 Pen h to the seaport town of 
Sihanoukville, 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 t heir steadfast support to the Royal Government 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 providing 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 ha ve received 32.8 million doses of COVID -19 vaccines from WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 and good cooperation. We commend China for putting 
its efforts and active participation in supporting rule -based multilateral trad ing system, support most 
of LDC’s issues, and others. We would like to also thank China for her continued support for South -
South 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 strengthen our good cooperation for economic growth and development.  
4.546.   To this end, we wish China a successful conclusion of its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
MAURITIUS  ON BEHALF  OF THE AFRICAN  GROUP  
4.547.   We welcome the Chinese delegation led by His Exc ellency Mr. Wang Wentao, 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 d espite the challenges 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 Afr ican Continent and this 
Partnership can best be symbolized by the Forum on China -Africa Cooperation which continues to 
yield a number of beneficial projects. We reiterate our support for this continued collaboration.  
4.550.   We would like to commend China for its strong economic performance 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 epidemic even in the early 
stages. We ackno wledge China’s significant 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 in the global fight against the pandemic.  
4.551.   With regard to China’s trade and investment policies, we welcome the liberalization direction 
taken by the country, including the adoption of its n ew foreign investment 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 2 019 although at a much 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 import 
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 
proce dures as part of its preparedness process for any similar situation recurring in future.  
4.553.   Prior to the pandemic, Africa and China noted an important reciprocal increases in trade 
flows. However, African exports were significantly impaired in 2019/20. In the  meanwhile, many WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  African countries established special trading 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 s ervices.  
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 Africa and the rest of the world. If not addressed, Africa will 
be left behind and the development gap will widen at an unprecedented rate. We therefore encourage 
China to assist African countries in their digitalization endeavours by promoting sustainable 
investments an d technology transfer 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 a nd energy sectors to become 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 eliminat ion of fisheries 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 terminate fuel and boat construction subsidies with the last of these pay -outs being made 
at end 2020”. We call on all Members to contribute to the prohibition of harmful subsidies and for 
the restoration of fish stocks globally.  
4.557.   In conclusion, w e 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 
sustainable value chains.  
4.558.   We wish China a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM  OF BAHRAIN  
4.559.   The Kingdom of Bahrain is delighted to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review of China, 
and would like to warmly welcome H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, H.E. Mr. Wang 
Shouwen, Vice Minister and Deputy China International Trade Representativ e, and H.E. Mr. Li 
Chenggang Ambassador and Permanent Representative of China to the WTO and wish them and 
their delegation a very successful Review.  
4.560.   We would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed 
report.  
4.561.   The P eople’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 weathe red 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 C hina’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 therefore encouraged by the findings of the report, that during the review period, 
China continued to aim at expan ding international trade and investments, as outlined in Five -Year 
Plans and various Administrative Measures.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.566.   We are also pleased to note from the report 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.  
4.567.   In closing, we would like to thank the discussant for their remarks and active discussion and 
the WTO Secretariat for their tireless eff orts in preparing the detailed report and wish China once 
again a very successful Review.  
JAMAICA  
4.568.   Jamaica joins other WTO Members in welcoming the delegation of the People’s Republic of 
China, at this, its eighth Trade Policy Review. We thank His Excellenc y 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, Ch air, 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. Bot h 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 A mbassador Li Chenggang, Jamaica has found 
pleasure collaborating with China at the WTO on a variety of issues. We, therefore, 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 diversi fy the economy away from agriculture and industry. The 
report points to success in this regard, notwithstanding the challenges 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 USD  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. Although 
all sectors were adversely hit by the COVID -19 pandemic, we commend the action undertaken by 
the Chinese Government to stabilize th e 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 sh are 
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 foreign 
investment through the adoption of a new Foreign Investment Law, strengthening intellectual 
property rights protection, as well as en hance customs clearance/trade facilitation demonstrate 
China’s commitment to an open investment and trade regime.  
4.572.   We are also pleased to learn of the attention being given to addressing the biggest existential 
threat to humanity as we know it, climate cha nge. For developing countries, the adverse effects of 
climate change have serious implications for our way of life. We further 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 digitalization, and 
the pursuit of energy conservation and efficiency. Special note is taken of the country’s Three -year’ 
Action Plan for Blue Skies, and other initiatives such as the Oz one (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 ac tive participation in the work of the WTO and for its solidarity with fellow developing 
countries. We note that China has been actively involved in the discussions on WTO reform; WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  negotiations on fisheries subsidies; agriculture; special and differential tr eatment and has been 
contributing to efforts aimed at addressing current challenges faced by the dispute settlement 
mechanism, including the Appellate Body. Its thrust to deepen global economic integration beyond 
the WTO through, inter alia, increased regi onal trade and the conclusion approximately 19 regional 
trade agreements, is worth noting.  
4.574.   We value the support and continued importance that China attributes to the integration of 
developing Members into the multilateral trading system. Jamaica would lik e 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 testa ment of China’s commitment to ensuring that the 
multilateral system benefits the whole membership and should be supported.  
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 inclu ding, of 
course, our Colleague Ambassador Li Chenggang.   
4.577.   Our thanks for the Report and the effort made, both by China and the Secretariat in the 
preparation for this 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.578.   Our appreciation to the Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body, H er 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 wor ld, we look to China, I believe, to play a 
very significant role in terms 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 t he generous, timely and indeed ongoing support extended by China 
and which has helped us to manage and to mitigate, relatively successfully, the impact of the 
pandemic on life and livelihoods in Zimbabwe.  
4.582.   The report submitted by the Government of China is comprehensive and detailed in its 
coverage of China’s rapidly evolving trade and investment policies and practices.  
4.583.   China’s economy is massive and highly complex. Structural reform and modernization is 
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 global 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 t he further streamlining of China’s import policy, the accommodating approach to 
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 openi ng-up of more sectors to 
inward FDI including the financial services sector and the greater levels of foreign shareholding now 
permissible across multiple economic sectors.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.587.   We note the improved performance in trade in services and, contrary to recent globa l trends, 
the impressive increase in inward FDI with primary focus on the service and high -tech industries 
sectors: a clear indication of strategic and logical future priorities within China’s evolving economic 
growth and development matrix.  
4.588.   We note deepen ing 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 reform of State -Owned 
Enterpr ises, a severe headache for any Government and, in this regard, the success of China’s mixed 
ownership model.  
4.590.   China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) now subsumed within the 
overarching State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) ha s, over many years, provided 
guidance and advice on the reform of Zimbabwe’s 107 SOE’s, 43 of which, including major power, 
financial and telecommunication entities, are currently undergoing major reform of one kind or 
another. It is a complex and challeng ing process. The progress made by China is highly 
commendable.  
4.591.   Over the past few 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 mov e up more than 50 places on the World Bank’s Global Ease of Doing Business Index.  
4.592.   Of course, critics will always find fault, will always characterize your efforts as inadequate 
and will always demand deeper and faster reform.  
4.593.   The important thing is to cont inue 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 gen eration 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 just 
under USD 500 million, up by 2% over the previous year. Major traded products are machinery and 
equipment, minerals, chemicals and tobacco. Zimbabwe horticulture and floriculture products h ave 
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 marke t access opportunities between our two 
countries are fully tapped.  
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 
emphas is always placed on the furtherance 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 Coope ration (FOCAC) 
with their strong emphasis on building productive capacity and on connecting countries by prioritizing 
the development of hard -infrastructure, both within countries and across borders is hugely important 
for developing countries seeking to i dentify and develop internal and foreign markets for our 
products and to facilitate more cost -effective movement of those products.  
4.599.   Let me conclude by welcoming China’s strong commitment 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 T rade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  KAZAKHSTAN  
4.601.   Kazakhstan warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of China led by His Excellency 
Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce of China. We also recognize with appreciation the presence 
of Vice Minister and Deputy China Interna tional Trade Representative, Wang Shouwen, and our 
friend, Ambassador 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 your insightful  comments as the discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for its comprehensive 
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 bilateral merchandise trade increased by 4% despite all 
the disruptions caused by COVID -19 pandemic and constituted USD 15.54 billion. And this growth 
in bilateral trade volume was possible thanks to the successful implementation of One Belt One Road 
programme and effective functioning of the free economic zone as a border between China and 
Kazakhstan. And this project became unique and aims at boosting bilateral trade and allowed the 
use of the ful l transit potential of Kazakhstan for China's trade with countries.  
4.603.   We also believe that China's initiative in achieving share growths through the collaboration 
of countries "One Belt One Road" programme has a significant potential to further enhance trade  
and economic cooperation within 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 indus trial and investment 
cooperation 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 th e agreement on trade and economic 
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 m edical supplies and vaccines. In this context, we would like to 
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 effort in launching a serious of trade facilitation measures, 
such as streamlining the customs procedures, inspections, optimization of free export control and 
certification services with a vie w to maintain trade flows of medical supplies and minimize the 
disruptions caused by the COVID -19 pandemic. We also note with appreciation that China has always 
been a supporter, an active participant and a major contributor to the accession processes to t he 
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 participation 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 Amba ssador 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 Review of the trade policy of China, and the discussant, H.E. Ms. Xolelwa 
Mlumbi -Peter of South Africa for her remarks.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.609.   The Republic of Tajikistan builds its relations with China taking into account it s 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 Tajikistan. 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 
reconstruction of international roads, access to electricity, increasing industrial capacity , economic 
development and sustainability. The foreign trade turnover between Tajikistan and China for 
9 months of 2021 amounted to USD 640 million and increased by 186.9% compared to the same 
period in 2020. Of the total turnover, exports to China amounte d 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 China’s support to combat the COVID -19 and the 
contribution to ensure the sustainabl e economic development and implementing important 
infrastructure projects and its interest to continue the partnership and strategic relations between 
the two countries. The expansion of trade cooperation with China is in the interest of both States. 
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 China provides a great opportunity to improve our 
understanding of its trade and inve stment 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 pe r 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 as bilateral context. China’s contribution to and constructive 
involvement in the WTO negotiations is also remarkable.  
4.613.   As active Member 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 en terprises 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 efficiency 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 Review.  
URUGUAY  
4.616.   Uruguay desea brindar la más cordial bienvenida a la delegación de China, encabezada por 
el Ministro de Comercio, Wang Wentao, en oportunidad del octavo examen de sus políticas 
comerciales. Agradecemos a la Embajadora Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, por su ponencia, y a la Secretaría 
por su completo informe.  
4.617.   En 2020, la súbita pandemia causó estragos en la economía mundial. A pesar de la 
repercusión del COVID -19 en la producción y el empleo, la economía de China ha sido un imponente 
motor del crecimiento económico mundial. Observamos que China ha aumentado continuamente la 
liberalización y la facilitación del comercio y las inversiones, adoptando un nuevo mode lo de apertura 
en todos los frentes. Notamos que China ha aprovechado la reforma y la innovación como fuente 
principal de dinamismo en sus esfuerzos por alcanzar los objetivos fundamentales de satisfacer las 
aspiraciones cada vez mayores de la población a una vida mejor que se vio reflejado en el aumento 
del PIB per cápita. De acuerdo con el informe de la Secretaría las tasas de pobreza se redujeron 
durante el periodo objeto de examen y China continuó el cambio estructural a largo plazo para pasar 
de la ind ustria a los servicios.  
4.618.   Por otro lado, notamos los arduos esfuerzos realizados por China en la lucha contra la 
pandemia en la lucha contra la pandemia. Asimismo, reconocemos el liderazgo de China por 
fortalecer continuamente la cooperación Sur -Sur. WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.619.   Uruguay  reconoce el compromiso de China por la mejora constante de la facilitación del 
comercio. En ese sentido, destacamos que antes de lo previsto, China notific ó a la OMC las medidas 
de aplicación del Acuerdo de Facilitación del Comercio (AFC), entre ellas la s de "Intercambio de 
información", "Suministro de información" y "Establecimiento y publicación de los plazos medios de 
levante". Hasta la fecha, China ha aplicado plenamente las medidas estipuladas en el AFC; y según 
se informa, se ha reducido el plazo gl obal de despacho de aduana de las importaciones en todo el 
país. Asimismo, encomiamos a China por su apoyo constante a la cooperación entre los Miembros 
de la OMC en cuestiones relacionadas con las MiPymes, como el intercambio de información, la 
puesta en común de buenas prácticas y la facilitación del comercio.  
4.620.   A nivel bilateral, el 3 de febrero de 1988, Uruguay y China establecieron relaciones 
diplomáticas. Desde entonces, las relaciones bilaterales se han desarrollado de forma fructífera y a 
pasos firmes . Los dos países han mantenido contactos de alto nivel y la cooperación económica y 
comercial ha aumentado de manera sostenida, siendo China en la actualidad el principal socio 
comercial de Uruguay. En este sentido, cobra suma importancia la celebración de  los 30 años de 
relaciones diplomáticas entre Uruguay y China en 2018, la cual se constituyó en una oportunidad 
para plantear los temas de mayor prioridad para nuestros países. En ese momento se constató que 
en 30 años de relaciones diplomáticas el comerci o había crecido 40 veces. Cabe destacar que, 
Uruguay y China han suscrito una considerable cantidad de convenios, memorandos, protocolos y 
actas que reflejan la intensidad de la relación económico -comercial bilateral y abogamos por 
continuar expandiendo nu estra relación.  
4.621.   China y Uruguay coinciden en el gran valor atribuido a la OMC y la función central de la 
misma en el sistema multilateral de comercio basado en normas, así como en la necesidad de 
alcanzar resultados significativos en la Duodécima Conferenc ia Ministerial. Del mismo modo, ambos 
países compartimos la necesidad de asegurar que la OMC siga siendo relevante en el futuro y a la 
altura de las circunstancias.  
4.622.   Asimismo, me permito reconocer el compromiso de China con el sistema multilateral de 
comer cio que se ve reflejado en la labor del Embajador Li Chenggang y su equipo en los trabajos de 
la OMC.  
4.623.   Para finalizar, quisiéramos reiterar nuestra apreciación por este nuevo ejercicio de 
intercambio sobre las prácticas comerciales de China, y esperamos seg uir cooperando con China en 
todos los frentes: bilateral, regional y aquí en la OMC. Gracias y mis mejores deseos para un Examen 
exitoso.  
HONDURAS  
4.624.   Permítanme comenzar dando una muy cálida bienvenida al Ministro de Comercio de la 
República de China, Señor M r. Wang Wentao y a su delegación.  
4.625.   Agradecemos al Presidente, a la Secretaría y al ponente por sus valiosos informes y 
declaraciones y también nuestro agradecimiento a China por su informe y su declaración del 
Gobierno.  
4.626.   En lo que concierne a los informes e xaminados, nos complace observar el compromiso de 
China de seguir aplicando la Convención Marco de las Naciones Unidas sobre el Cambio Climático y 
el Acuerdo de París para hacer frente al cambio climático, reiterando la realización de sus esfuerzos 
por alc anzar el punto máximo de sus emisiones de dióxido de carbono antes de 2030 y por lograr la 
neutralidad en emisiones de carbono para 2060.  
4.627.   Observamos, la aprobación del establecimiento de la primera empresa de corretaje de 
divisas de China con inversión ex clusivamente extranjera, así como la primera compañía de seguros 
de pensiones con inversión extranjera y la primera empresa extranjera que ofrece servicios de pagos 
digitales en China.   
4.628.   Valoramos que en los informes se resalta que, en los últimos decenios, China ha conseguido 
grandes avances en la reducción de la pobreza, lo cual ha significado que el número de habitantes 
de China que ha salido de la pobreza representa más del 70% del tot al mundial y según sus 
autoridades, se ha cumplido el objetivo de erradicar la pobreza fijado por la Agenda 2030 de las WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo Sostenible, 10 años antes de lo previsto, lo cual es admirable y 
remarcable.  
4.629.   Por otro lado, reconocem os la labor de China de trabajar intensamente para que la OMC 
desempeñe una función importante en la prevención y el control de la pandemia y en la recuperación 
económica y notamos el compromiso de China de seguir participando activamente en nuestros 
debat es sobre la liberalización del comercio de productos médicos, la exención de los derechos de 
propiedad intelectual de las vacunas y otras cuestiones relacionadas con el comercio y la salud.  
4.630.   De los informes se desprende que, China seguirá profundizando en l a cooperación Sur -Sur, 
contribuyendo a la erradicación de la pobreza, el alivio de la carga de la deuda y el crecimiento 
económico de los Miembros en desarrollo, profundizando en la cooperación en materia de 
agricultura, salud, mitigación de catástrofes y recursos hídricos.  
4.631.   En ese último tema, destacamos que China se encuentra vinculada al Proyecto Hidroeléctrico 
sobre el Río Patuca con la empresa Sinohydro y la Represa Patuca III es la segunda hidroeléctrica 
más grande de Honduras, con una inversión de USD 460 millones, y un a capacidad para generar 
104 megavatios de energía limpia.  
4.632.   En lo que respecta a nuestro comercio e inversión bilateral, el mismo refleja una balanza 
comercial con carácter deficitario para nuestro país, y en el año 2020, importamos alrededor de 
USD 923 mi llones en Fundición, hierro, acero, Máquinas, aparatos, material eléctrico, vehículos y 
Calzado, entre otros y exportamos USD 46 millones en minerales, prendas y complementos de vestir 
y de punto, cenizas, Máquinas, aparatos y material eléctrico.  
4.633.   Finalmen te, permítame reitérale nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar y examinar las políticas y prácticas comerciales de China, al mismo tiempo desear éxito 
a las autoridades en la presentación de su mecanismo de Examen de políticas co merciales.  
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 and Ambassador Li Chenggang.  
4.635.   We would like to express our gratitude to the WTO Secretariat and to the Chinese 
Government for providing such comprehensive reports of the eighth Trade Policy Review of China. 
We would also like to thank the discussant, H.E. Ambassador 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 
regard to legal framework, administrative processes which is allowing further development of a 
mutually benef icial relations and diversified cooperation on bilateral level between our countries, as 
well as on the regional and international levels including in the framework of Shanghai Cooperation 
Organization, the United Nations, WTO and other International Organ izations.  
4.638.   With regard to bilateral trade and economic relations, it should be noted that, despite the 
difficult situation in the global economy, China remains one of the main trad ing 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 offic ially 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 WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 refo rms, moving 
in the direction of liberalization and simplification of its procedures, including customs reforms, which 
will contribute into removing of trade barriers.  
4.642.   Since the beginning of its Membership 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 date, 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 two countries to 
consistently develop mutually beneficial cooperation.  
4.644.   Trade and economic cooperat ion 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 
intergovernmental agreements on trade and economic cooperation and the creation of an 
intergov ernmental 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 2019 , 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 Republic 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 investme nt 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 an d agricultural 
raw materials (honey, tobacco products, various nuts, fresh and dried fruits, drinks, etc.), raw hides, 
tanned leather, ores and concentrates of precious 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 
cooperation in the development of infrastructure and transport, energy, processing industry, 
agricul ture, mining, tourism, as well as cross -border cooperation.  
4.650.   Currently, the parties are successfully implementing a number of joint projects in the Kyrgyz 
Republic, which are of great socio -economic importance for Kyrgyzstan.  
4.651.   Broad opportunities for coopera tion 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. Ambassador 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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  4.653.   In conclusion, the Kyrgyz Republic wishes to the delegation of the People’s Republic of China 
a very successful Trad e Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CHINA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  In the past two -day’s review, my colleagues and I listened attentively to the remarks made by 
Madam Chair, the discussant and representatives from 65 Members. 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 liberalization and facilitation, and in 
supporting the multilateral tradin g system.  
5.2.  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 adjust some of these concerns a bit further.  
With regard to the Belt and Road Initiative  
5.3.  In 2019, President Xi Jinping emphasized at the Second Belt and Road Forum for International 
Cooperation held in Beijing that China will adhere to openness, green development and clean 
governance, and total transparency in the implementation of BRI initiat ive. For BRI projects, China 
attaches great importance to strengthening debt management, helping partner countries to improve 
debt sustainability and enhance sovereign debt risk prevention capabilities. For that purpose, China 
has jointly approved the “Bel t and Road Initiative Financing Guiding Principle” with 27 countries.  
With regard to Forced Transfer of Technology and IPR Protection  
5.4.  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 revised in April 2019 and the Foreign Investment Law implemented in 
January 2020 explicitly stipulate that administrative agencies and their staff shall not force the 
transfer of technology.  
5.5.  China has gone a long way in strengthening the protection of intellectual property rights and 
achieved remarkable results. The number of patent applications in China has been ranking first 
globally for many years. In 2019, the number  of invention patents and trademark applications in 
China filed by foreign owners reached 157,000 and 255,000 respectively, an annual increase of 6% 
and 4.7% respectively over the previous year. Furthermore, China is now an important buyer of the 
IPRs. In 2020, 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  
5.6.  President Xi Jinping has pointed out that dual circulation is by no means a closed -door 
circulation, rat her it is a more 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 welfare to peoples of all nations. He also stresses that Chin a will not shut its door, 
and instead will open the door even wider.  
5.7.  China keeps expanding domestic demand, while avoiding over -reliance on exports. The ratio 
of China’s exports to its GDP was 17% in 2020. The exports to GDP ratio for the United States wa s 
6.8%, and for Japan was 12%. We can see China’s economy relies more on exports than the 
United  States, Japan and many other economies.  
5.8.  One important reason for China's expansion of domestic circulation is that some countries have 
imposed harsh export co ntrols on China under the pretext of national security, which cut off the 
supply chain for Chinese enterprises. Consequently, China has no choice but to do the research and 
development on these products and technologies that cannot be purchased in the inte rnational 
market.  
With regard to Antidumping and Countervailing  
5.9.  Some Members mentioned in their statements that China frequently uses antidumping and 
countervailing measures. This is not true. In fact, China has exercised much restraint in taking WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  antidumpi ng and countervailing measures, and strictly followed the provisions of the WTO 
antidumping and SCM agreements in initiating investigations.  
5.10.   According to the statistics of the WTO, there have been around 911 antidumping and 
countervailing investigations i nitiated globally between 2018 and 2020. Of these cases, there are 
only 42 cases initiated by China, accounting for merely 4.6% of the total. During the same period, 
however, China’s imports accounted for 11% of the global imports. Evidently, these two fig ures are 
very much disproportionate.  
5.11.   For the same period between 2018 and 2020, some Members have 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 e xports account for in the global total exports. Therefore, it 
is China who is the very Member suffering the largest number of antidumping and countervailing 
investigations in the world, and clearly the biggest victim of abusive use of trade remedy measures  
by some members.  
With regard to Non -transparent and Unfair Operation in China’s Government Procurement 
Practices  
5.12.   China’s Government Procurement Law clearly provides that suppliers shall not be subject to 
different or discriminatory treatment under unreaso nable conditions. The Foreign Investment Law 
requires that domestic and foreign -invested enterprises are treated equally in government 
procurement. On 13 October this year, China issued the Notice to Implement the Equal Treatment 
to Foreign -invested and Do mestic Enterprises in Government Procurement Activities, which requires 
that both foreign -invested and domestic enterprises can participate in government procurement in 
China on an equal basis.  
5.13.   China implements government procurement in a transparent way a nd publicly releases 
product and service list for government procurement in accordance with laws and regulations. China 
has made tremendous efforts in its bid to join the GPA over the past 14 years. Up to now, China 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 other GPA parties. The size of China’s 
government procurement market is huge. In 2020, the scale of national government procurement 
including local governments at all levels reached 3.7 trillion yuan, an increase of 11.8% year -on-
year. 
5.14.   My colleagues told me that New Zealand submitted its application in 2012 and became a party 
in 2015. China applied to join the GPA back in 2007. We admire N ew Zealand which has already 
become a veteran GPA party for years. China’s accession to the GPA cannot simply reply on China’s 
own efforts. 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 practices and SOEs  
5.15.   The Constitution of China stipulates that China practices a socialist market economy.  
5.16.   China has continuously promoted and deepened th e process of marketization. Currently in 
China, interest rates and exchange rate are determined by market forces. The Bankruptcy Law is 
uniformly applicable to all types of market entities. 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 utilities and public welfare services.  
5.17.   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.  
5.18.   As independent market entities that operate on their own, the SOEs take responsibilities  for 
their profits or losses, assume their own risks, keep self -disciplined and realize self -development. 
The SOEs participate in market competition in the same manner as other enterprises of other 
ownerships. The SOEs do not enjoy any privileges. Since 20 18, the reform of the SOEs has achieved 
profound progress. The reform to convert the SOEs into standard companies has fully been WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  accomplished. The number of SOEs with mixed ownership accounts for more than 70% of the total. 
In 2020, the imports and exports  of SOEs accounted for only 14.3% of the total China’s foreign 
trade. The Government of China does not grant subsidies on the basis of the types of ownership.  
With regard to Overcapacity  
5.19.   Since 2015, China has been carrying out the supply -side structural r eform, producing 
remarkable progress in overcapacity. Presently, there is no overcapacity in China's coal, steel and 
aluminum sectors.  
5.20.   For example, from 2018 to 2020, China has reduced over 150 million tonnes of crude steel 
production capacity and the util ization rate returned to an appropriate range of over 80%. The 
capacity utilization rate of the aluminum industry was above 85%.  
5.21.   In 2020, the net export of China’s crude steel was 16.72 million tonnes accounting for only 
1.57% of China’s crude steel output  and 4.17% of the global export. China exported 4.63 million 
tonnes of aluminum in 2020, a year -on-year decrease of 10%, accounting for only 8% of China’s 
aluminum output. China maintains control over new capacity and is committed to establishing and 
impro ving a long -term mechanism for resolving excess capacity through marketization and rule of 
law.  
With regard to Forced Labour  
5.22.   China is firmly opposed to any form of forced labour. The Criminal Law of China explicitly 
prohibits forced labour and stipulates that in cases where the circumstances are serious, the persons 
who are directly responsible for offence shall be sentenced to imprisonment of three to ten years. 
Meanwhile, the laws and regulations of China clearly prohibit the export of forced labour prod ucts. 
It is totally unwarranted to withhold export from China into some members on the ground of forced 
labour.  
With regard to Economic Coercive Measures  
5.23.   China is firmly opposed to unilateralism and protectionism measures, including the economic 
coercive  measures. The dispute settlement mechanism of the WTO could be relied on to find a 
satisfactory resolution to any trial dispute. 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.   
5.24.   China is glad to see a Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA) being 
operational at the time w hen WTO Appellate 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.  
5.25.   China has taken note of the Australia’s allegation about China’s import restr ictions. That 
accusation is groundless. According to Australian statistics, Australia’s global trade surplus in 2020 
was USD 39 billion and its trade surplus with China was USD 40 billion. For the first eight months of 
this year, Australia’s exports to Chi na 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  
5.26.   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 the Chinese economy achieved the earliest recovery, which contribute to the global economic 
growth.   
5.27.   The measures taken by China have not affected adversely other WTO Members’ exports to 
China. To take meat as an example, China imported 9.91 million tonnes of meat from other Members 
in 2020, with an annual increase by 60.4%.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.28.   In terms of international tra vel, China has continuously taken proactive measures to create 
conditions to facilitate the international travel of persons into China.  
With regard to Transparency  
5.29.   China has done a relatively good job in fulfilling its obligations of notification under a ll 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.  
5.30.   These notifications cover 150 subsidy programmes at central level and 794 ones at su b-
central level, including tax incentives for the integrated circuit industry, 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 i ndustries.  
5.31.   On 15 and 19 October 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 submit the lat est notification on domestic support in agriculture 
in the first half of next year.  
With regard to Trade Surplus  
5.32.   As a major exporter and importer, China does not seek trade surplus with its trading partners. 
According to the UK’s Economist magazine, the e dition of 9 -15 October this year, China's current 
account surplus accounted for 2.8% of its 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 China’s trade is more balanced than 
some of the majo r economies.  
5.33.   China’s import of goods ranks the second place in the world, totalling 2.06 trillion US dollars 
in 2020. To break down, the industrial products accounted for 60% of the total imports, and 
agricultural products was 10%, while energy and mineral  products took up 28%.  
5.34.   To increase imports, China hosts the China International Import Expo every year and 
welcomes all WTO Members including India and Brazil which have expressed interest in exporting 
more products to China, industrial and agricultural p roduces alike. I am also told by my colleagues 
that 139 economies in the world are represented in the China International Import Expo. The out 
coming one will take place between November 5 and November 10. So, we welcome more businesses 
from WTO Members to  be represented.  
5.35.   I have also taken note of the questions raised by Uganda and Mongolia. We will adjust your 
questions in due course.  
5.36.   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 coo peration with LDCs. In my remarks on Wednesday, I have stated that 
China accorded 0 tariff treatment on 97% all tariff lines to 42 LDCs. China has been the biggest 
export market for LDCs in the past 12 years. China will continue to support LDCs endeavour t o 
integrate into the global trading system through China cooperation projects with the WTO 
Secretariat. I also want to reassure LDC countries that China’s market will continue to be open to 
your products and services and we particularly welcome you to part icipate 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 you’re 
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.  
5.37.   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 WTO Members and we will adjust 
those concerns in a very constructive and efficient manner. And I am sure that China’s market will 
be providing more opportunities for all WTO Members. Thank you, Madam Chair.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  DISCUSSANT  
5.38.   Madam Chair, I would like to start by co ngratulating 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 wide variety of issues and 
China’s respo nse 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 attaches to the TPRM, given China’s important role in the global economy.  
5.39.   There are a number of issues that came up in the review. Members noted the significance of 
this review given that it coincides with the 20th anniversary of China’s accession to the WTO. They 
also highlighted 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 poverty. 
Members also welcomed China ’s continuous support for 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.  
5.40.   Like in any other Review, there are concerns that were shared by Members and areas for 
improvement. These include the ne ed to improve notification obligations, especially in relation to 
state trading entities and domestic support. Some highlighted the 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 SOEs so as to level 
the playing field. The need to address competition distortions and the support provided to SOEs 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 th e 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 
the scientific rationale of COVID -19 measures which they considered stringent and calle d 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 regards to the implications of Decree  248 
and 249 and some Members requested China t o review the implementation date.  
5.41.   In relation to LDCs, some Members enquired about China’s plan to implement preferential 
Rules of Origin, and whether the preferential access granted to LDCs will also apply to graduating 
LDCs.  
5.42.   Importantly, Members also app reciated the opportunity provided by the 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 
impleme nted 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 coo peration, 
through various initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative and technical assistance provided 
to developing countries and LDCs.  
5.43.   It has been a pleasure and an honour to be the discussant for China’s eighth Trade Policy 
Review. I want to th ank you, Chair, as well as the WTO Secretariat for their efforts. And finally, I 
would like to once more congratulate the Chinese delegation for a successful Review.  
UGANDA  
5.44.   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 
Ambassador Li and to the Chinese delegation in Geneva. I want to thank you for the opportunity to 
speak at this memorable occasion, to welcome China and thank them and c ongratulate them as well 
for their 20th Anniversary of acceding to the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.45.   I would like to sincerely apologize for Uganda's inability to speak on Wednesday. This was 
due to a technical issue, we had an issue with our numbers, we have different numbers fro m 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.  
5.46.   I would like to give a bit of c ontext to Uganda's admission 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 working through a shut down and a lock down with only 20% of our offices only 
opened 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 o ur small businesses have been wiped out or closed 
is an understatement. As you well know, our population is roughly 40 million, our population remains 
largely unvaccinated, approximately 1.5 million, many of whom have received a vaccination from 
China.  
5.47.   Uganda is very much in the eye of COVID and discussing of post COVID -19 strategies 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 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 margina lized population.  
5.48.   Uganda looks to China for further discussions on potential projects and agreements on the 
vaccine that will allow for increased access to China's vaccine for all. That said, we do not disregard 
China's donations to our country, for withou t that we will not be able to begin to discuss continued 
post COVID development.  
5.49.   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 gross rate and ma rket-oriented 
reform. In many ways, there is no conversation about poverty alleviation in Uganda 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 a gain, I repeat, on China and Uganda's poverty 
alleviation, there is no conversation without China and, in that regard, China and Uganda's bilateral 
cooperation without the recognition of your major contributions will be remised.  
5.50.   Our population, particularl y our women, have been supported by China's economic 
transformation in my country. Trough sustain support in the agricultural sector, particularly were 
68% of our farmers are women, China's assistance in the value addition, various industrialization 
progre ss, microfinance loans for small and subsistence farmers, particularly women, has kept 
poverty at base in 2020 and in 2021.  
5.51.   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, paragraph 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 bilat eral and ad hoc 
economic integration efforts will be more enhanced post COVID as we work towards a more resilient 
economic structure for Uganda.  
5.52.   We can now already see the advantages on the importance of the multilateral trading rules, 
the trading environm ent 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 and stable suppliers to original market have become and will become 
more important as investment determinant. Le t me rephrase, as China continues to take a closer 
look on 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?  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.53.   As our trade began, we have seen the return of protectionism, nationalism and a prioritization 
on national economic policies, capabilities, production, financing and interventionism in the services 
industry.  
5.54.   As we confront severe structure impediments to development, there is pr omise 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 supply change resilience will 
accelerate trends and national production , cross -border original 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 economic 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.  
5.55.   China and Uganda signed an Authorized Economic Operator and Mutual Recognition 
Agreement at the 5th WCO Global AEO Conference held in Dubai. This is the first of such agreement 
between China and an African country. According to China’s general administration of customs, 
Uganda stands the benefits greatly from simplified and digitalized  customs procedures much needed 
as we look towards our post COVID resilient reforms. That said, China, please could you specify your 
main policies and measures for streamlining customs procedures, particularly in Africa?  
5.56.   In conclusion, as we look to WTO MC 12, 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 post COVID economic crisis. Is there any room for additional programmes for LDCs 
and particul arly to bring this particular programme of special preferential treatment to bear much 
fruit?  
5.57.   Uganda would like to conclude by asking 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 aid 
TRIPS waiver.  
NEPAL  
5.58.   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.  
5.59.   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.  
5.60.   My delegation thanks H.E. Ms Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Ambassador of South Africa fo r her 
comprehensive remarks as discussant.  
5.61.   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.  
5.62.   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.  
5.63.   My delegation takes a good note of China becoming an e xample of managing the COVID -19 
pandemic successfully with minimal impact on its economy.  
5.64.   China’s support to the supply of vaccines, essential medicines and medical instruments and 
skilled human resources to the countries in need to fight against the COVI D-19 is commendable.  
5.65.   We deeply appreciate China for the medical and vaccine supplies to Nepal in our fight against 
COVID -19.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.66.   I wish to take a good note of China’s contribution to the global economic growth. Despite 
some negative impact of the pandemic in 2020, the country has achieved a fast economic recovery 
resulting in an estimated growth of 6.0% in 2021.  
5.67.   Various reform initiatives taken by China during the review period mainly in foreign 
Investment regime, trade facilitation, tax regime, and licensing , among others have remained highly 
valued.   
5.68.   Initiatives taken through the rural revitalization strategy would contribute enhancing 
livelihood of rural people in the days ahead.   
5.69.   The Made in China initiative and the Internet Plus initiative is a motivati ng factor in promoting 
its manufacturing sector.  
5.70.   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.  
5.71.   While turning to the bilateral front, the relations between Nepal and China are age -old, 
deep-rooted and close.  
5.72.   Our bilateral relations ha ve been marked by friendliness, understanding, mutual support, 
cooperation and respect for each other’s sensitivities.  
5.73.   The friendly ties have been deepening in economic, trade and transit, investment, tourism 
and people -to-people front ever since the esta blishment of bilateral relation in 1955.  
5.74.   Nepal is firmly committed to One -China policy and is also committed to not allowing its 
territory for any inimical activities against China.  
5.75.   A number of bilateral mechanisms exist to further strengthen our socio -economic relations 
between the two countries.  
5.76.   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 bilatera l cooperation.  
5.77.   My delegation sincerely appreciates China’s assistance in Nepal’s development efforts in the 
areas of infrastructure building, industrialization process, human resources development, health, 
education, water resources, sports and the like.  
5.78.   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.  
5.79.   Trade, investment, tourism and infrastructure development are major areas  of interest for 
economic cooperation between the countries.  
5.80.   China is the second largest trading partner of Nepal accounting for 16% of Nepal’s total trade.  
5.81.   Recent trade data reveals 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 fr om China. This could be an opportunity 
for strengthening our partnership and collaboration in achieving a balanced trade in future.  
5.82.   China is the largest source of Foreign Direct Investment and the second largest source of 
foreign tourists to Nepal.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.83.   My de legation 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 opportunity 
due to its supply -side capacity constraints.  
5.84.   Nepal and China bilate ral economic and trade cooperation is further cementing through 
numbers of policy instruments signed by both countries and bilateral mechanisms established under 
those instruments. To mention the latest few of them, successful conclusion of transit transpo rt 
agreement and its protocol became landmark policy instrument to diversify trade and transit 
relations with Nepal.  
5.85.   In this context, I would like to mention that both countries have huge potentials for 
strengthening our collaboration and partnership for wider and just socio -economic benefits to us.   
5.86.   Finally, Chair, I wish a highly successful Trade Policy Review of China.  
ECUADOR  
5.87.   Transmito el agradecimiento de nuestras autoridades a usted, Presidenta, y al comentarista 
por su gran trabajo para facilitar este importante Examen de políticas comerciales. También nuestro 
reconocimiento al trabajo de la Secretaría de la OMC. Transmito n uestro saludo y felicitaciones a la 
delegación china liderada por el Ministro Wang Wentao, el Viceministro Wang Shouwen y, por 
supuesto, al Embajador Li y su equipo en Ginebra. Lamentablemente, el Embajador Valencia no 
puede acompañarnos hoy. No obstante, realizaré nuestra intervención en su nombre.  
5.88.   Ecuador considera a China como un socio estratégico en varias áreas de sus relaciones 
internacionales, con inclusión de la comercial e inversiones. Ambos países hemos alcanzado 
resultados mutuamente ventajosos e  incrementado nuestra cooperación en ámbitos como la 
infraestructura, la energía, la agricultura, los minerales y las finanzas.  
5.89.   Ecuador y China se han apoyado conjuntamente durante la pandemia por COVID -19. Ecuador 
reconoce el importante suministro de vacu nas que, con las adquisiciones desde otros países, 
permitió que nuestro Gobierno exitosamente inmunice a la fecha un 70% de la población 
ecuatoriana.  
5.90.   La adhesión del Ecuador a la iniciativa "Belt and Road" en diciembre de 2018 y en noviembre 
de 2019 al Ban co Asiático de Inversiones en Infraestructura han permitido impulsar la cooperación 
con China, promover la inversión directa, generar redes eficientes de economía digital y lanzar 
nuevos vínculos entre los países de la región de Asia y del Pacífico con la expectativa de mejorar 
rutas comerciales y abrir nuevos mercados. Todo ello es muy positivo para el Ecuador en una época 
de crisis global de salud pública que ha afectado severamente las expectativas de comercio.  
5.91.   Felicitamos a China en su octavo Examen de políticas comerciales. En esta ocasión, Ecuador 
ha presentado preguntas por escrito respecto de las políticas comerciales de China en relación con 
varias áreas, incluyendo asuntos de medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias, así como de facilitación del 
comerci o. 
5.92.   Reconocemos el importante y la activa participación de China en el sistema multilateral del 
comercio, así como sus avances que, en varias áreas, se registra el informe de la Secretaría, por 
ejemplo, en cuanto a la facilitación del comercio con respecto a los requisitos de registro, 
documentación e inspección de las importaciones, así como en la respuesta a la pandemia de COVID 
en esta área. Se amplío su ventanilla única, por ejemplo, para el comercio internacional y según se 
informa se redujo el tiempo t otal de despacho de aduanas para las importaciones en todo el país.  
5.93.   China participa en las iniciativas basadas en declaraciones conjuntas en la OMC sobre el 
comercio electrónico, la facilitación de las inversiones, pequeñas y medianas empresas. Asimismo, 
reconocemos su participación en el grupo de trabajo sobre género y como coordinador del diálogo 
informal sobre contaminación por plásticos y un comercio de plásticos más sostenible junto con 
Australia, Barbados, Fiji, Marruecos y Ecuador. En el marco del cu al, valoramos el establecimiento 
de sinergias y cooperación con otros procesos internacionales en la materia.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.94.   Felicitamos a China por su aniversario desde su ingreso en la OMC, y porque desde el Examen 
de políticas comerciales de China en 2018 la economía del país continúa siendo un importante motor 
de crecimiento a nivel global con avances en el alivio de la pobreza en las últimas décadas como 
resultado de las altas tasas de crecimiento del PIB y las reformas que, orientadas al mercado, llevan 
a cabo. Alen tamos a que se continúe con las mismas.  
SRI LANKA  
5.95.   My delegation welcomes the delegation of the People’s Republic of China led by His Excellency 
Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister of the Ministry of Commerce for the eighth review of the trade policies 
and practices of China.  
5.96.   We thank Her Excellency Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, the discussant, for her insights and report 
and the WTO Secretariat and the Government of China for their comprehensive reports made 
available to the Members.  
5.97.   As my delegation noted that China ha s maintained its position as the world's second largest 
importer of goods, which accounted for 11.5% of global imports in 2020, for the 12 consecutive 
years. China is also the second largest importer of services trade in the world.  
5.98.   As we are well known, d uring the COVID -19 outbreak, when people's safety and health were 
seriously endangered, China mobilized maximum efforts 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 industrial chains and strong support systems in China played a positive role in boosting 
the recovery of the world economy. Sri Lanka as a benef iciary country of pandemic support extended 
by China, we highly appreciate China’s initiatives and assistance during the pandemic.  
5.99.   We acknowledge that China, who is celebrating 20th Anniversary of Accession to the WTO, is 
a strong supporter of the open an d rule -based multilateral trading system, and active participant 
and major contributor to the multilateral trading system. Its initiatives and encouragements for 
other members to maintain a rule -based, transparent, non -discriminatory, open and inclusive 
multilateral trading system, and to oppose unilateralism and protectionism is commendable.  
5.100.   It is commendable that China has fulfilled all its notification obligations under all WTO 
Agreements. As the largest developing member, China has made significant pro gress in subsidy 
notification, which is the most difficult exercise in terms of data collection process. China has further 
streamlined import administration procedures and continuously lowered import tariffs which are 
beneficial for developing countries, i n particular the LDCs.  
5.101.   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 201 9. Chinese investments have contributed 
immensely to expand the economy, employment and tax 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 indica te that China is one of the major economic partners of Sri Lanka.  
5.102.   Both Sri Lanka and China 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.  
5.103.   Holding  “South Asia Expo” dedicated to South Asian products, is an important measure that 
has been 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 exh ibition 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 encouraged Sri Lanka to participate at the future fairs too, and we look forward 
China’s cooperation in this regard in the future as well.  
5.104.   Sri Lanka -China Joint Committee for  Trade and Economic Cooperation was established in 
1991. The Sixth Session of the Joint Committee was held on 7th June 2014 in Beijing. As per a WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  decision taken at this meeting, both sides launched negotiations on an FTA which has not yet been 
concluded.  
5.105.   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 meanin gful negotiations, and 
we too value its contributions in the area of technical assistance for building the capacity of 
developing countries and LDCs in many related areas.  
5.106.   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 activities of the 
WTO, is highly commendable.  
5.107.   We wish delegation of China a successful deliberation on its Trade Policy Review.  
EGYPT  
5.108.   Egypt associates itself with the statemen t delivered by Mauritius on behalf of the African 
Group and joins 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 Beij ing and in Geneva.  
5.109.   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.  
5.110.   It gives us great pleasure to participate in the 8th TPR of China, and we start by 
ackno wledging China’s prominent contribution to trade and global economic growth. Indeed, China 
represents a success story for leveraging trade for economic development.  
5.111.   Egypt congratulates China for its strong economic performance and notable achievements 
during the review period, 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.  
5.112.   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 comme nd the 
Chinese government 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.  
5.113.   We applaud China’s general reduction of simple applied average MFN tarif fs on almost all 
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.  
5.114.   Egypt and China share ever -growing bilateral relations owing to  the comprehensive and 
strategic partnership between both countries, which paints broader horizons for deeper cooperation 
on both bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly on the economic front.  
5.115.   Egypt regards China as an integral development partner,  as it is our largest 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 bilater al cooperation and extend it to wider areas in trade and investment where 
considerable potential remains untapped.  
5.116.   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 d ecrease 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 WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  approvals,  as in the case of dried dates and semi -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 call upon 
China to facilitate and accelerate procedures of granting market access to agricultural exports.  
5.117.   Finally, Egypt reaffirms its aspirations to deepen cooperation between both countries and 
wishes the Chinese delegation a successful and  fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
BOLIVIA  
5.118.   Bolivia da la bienvenida al Sr. Wang Wentao, Ministro de Comercio de China, al Viceministro 
de Comercio Exterior y al Embajador Li Chenggang y a toda la honorable delegación China. 
Agradecemos la presentación en este Examen de política comercial y la información compartida con 
todos los Miembros de la OMC. Asimismo, agradecemos a la Secretaría por su informe y a la 
Embajadora de Sudáfrica por sus importantes contribuciones.  
5.119.   China es uno de los principales socios comer ciales de Bolivia y mercado para las 
exportaciones bolivianas de minerales como zinc, plata y plomo. Asimismo, es uno de los principales 
destinos para la carne bovina boliviana, entre enero y junio de 2021 se logró exportar a China 9.121 
toneladas por un v alor de USD 45.2 millones, este mercado representa cerca del 85% de la cantidad 
total de las exportaciones de ese producto. Asimismo, Bolivia ha exportado alrededor de 600 
toneladas de quinua a China antes de la crisis sanitaria, uno de los productos más i mportantes para 
nuestro país. Como varios otros productos de gran calidad que produce Bolivia.  
5.120.   En el marco de las excelentes relaciones que Bolivia mantiene con China esperamos mejorar 
y fortalecer cada vez más nuestras relaciones comerciales con base al M emorándum firmado en 
2019 sobre todo en áreas como infraestructura, logística, almacenaje, manufactura, industria, 
servicios, y otros para superar la balanza comercial negativa actual.  
5.121.   También esperamos continuar explorando canales de exportación para otro s productos 
bolivianos como el germen de soya, sorgo, café, cacao, acai, y realizar inversiones en el sector 
automotriz y farmacéutico.  
5.122.   Bolivia reconoce en China un socio estratégico en la recuperación económica mundial, la 
tendencia ascendente del PIB dur ante los últimos años, y en especial, durante el año de pandemia, 
son una evidencia de su alta capacidad de resiliencia y capacidad económica.  
5.123.   En los países de América Latina el volumen de intercambios comerciales bilaterales ha ido 
en continuo y sostenid o crecimiento aún a pesar de la crisis sanitaria, por lo que su rol protagónico 
es fundamental para el desarrollo de la región sobre todo en lo que respecta a manufactura, servicios 
e infraestructura, y desde luego, en la apertura de nuevas rutas comercial es tales como la ruta de 
la seda generando nuevas oportunidades para nuestros países.  
5.124.   Compartimos con China la visión de fortalecer el multilateralismo y alcanzar consensos que 
permitan contribuir al desarrollo innovador, coordinado, ecológico, abierto y c ompartido de todos, 
teniendo en cuenta las particularidades y necesidades de los países en desarrollo y los países en 
desarrollo sin litoral en cuanto a los desafíos específicos de estos para desarrollar su potencial 
comercial.  
5.125.   Esperamos seguir trabajando  juntos en los temas que hoy son fundamentales dentro de 
nuestra Organización, reforma de la OMC y la reforma del comercio agrícola, respuestas efectivas a 
la pandemia, comercio de servicios, comercio electrónico y encontrar respuestas colectivas ante la 
emergencia climática, en el marco de sistema de comercio transparente e inclusivo basado en 
normas que incentive el trato especial y diferenciado para los países en desarrollo como derecho 
consolidado de los Miembros.  
5.126.   Aprovechamos la ocasión para agradecer el compromiso y el apoyo de China a Bolivia en la 
lucha contra la pandemia del COVID. El envío de vacunas e insumos médicos durante el presente 
año fue fundamental para lograr una respuesta adecuada y alcanzar nuestros objetivos, las vacunas 
enviadas por p arte de China han alcanzado un total de 9 millones hasta septiembre de este año, 
permitiendo a Bolivia llevar adelante una la campaña de vacunación con muy buenos resultados.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.127.   Finalmente, reiteramos el agradecimiento por la información presentada por la de legación 
China y les deseamos un exitoso octavo Examen de política comercial.  
CAP VERT 
5.128.   Le Cap Vert aimerait d’abord souhaiter la bienvenue à la délégation de Chine, à la personne 
du Ministre du commerce Wang Wentao et le Vice -Ministre Wang Shouwen, ainsi que l’Ambassadeur 
Li. Le Cap Vert aimerait aussi féliciter Madame la Présidente, le Secr étariat, ainsi que l’Ambassadrice 
de l’Afrique du Sud pour la précieuse contribution dans cet exercice.  
5.129.   L’Examen de la politique et pratique commerciales de la Chine intervient dans un climat 
international marqué par la crise pandémique du COVID -19 qui a l ourdement frappé le système 
commercial multilatéral. Aucun pays n’a été épargné par cette grande récession économique que 
nous traversons actuellement.  
5.130.   La République du Cap Vert tient à féliciter la résilience du peuple chinois dans la gestion de 
la crise  pandémique du COVID -19. Nous renouvelons notre gratitude aux autorités chinoises pour 
leur soutien constant à l’Afrique, y compris le Cap Vert, pour l’aide au développement, l’accès au 
vaccin, et à l’investissement dans cette période difficile que nous tr aversons.  
5.131.   La présence de la délégation chinoise à cet Examen témoigne, une fois de plus, de 
l’engagement de toute transparence du pays à coopérer avec l’OMC et à accélérer ses réformes 
antérieures pour répondre aux exigences des règles du commerce internat ional orienté vers le 
développement et le bien -être social de tous.  
5.132.   La crise du COVID -19 a, une fois de plus, conforté la Chine dans la volonté de transformer 
ses politiques de développement économique, notamment pour la diversification structurelle d’une 
part, l’amélioration du fonctionnement de son marché financier, et la consolidation des filets de 
sécurité cruciale pour la population d’autre part.  
5.133.   Par ailleurs, mon pays, le Cap Vert, se félicite de l’adoption des mesures des autorités 
chinoises visant à asseoir davantage la croissance sur la demande intérieure et à encourager 
l’expansion des services, ainsi que des réformes substantielles à la libéralisation des régimes du 
commerce et de l’investissement pour mieux favoriser la concurrence.  
5.134.   L’ado ption de mesures efficientes pour contrer les pressions protectionnistes méritent une 
attention particulière. De plus, ma délégation salue l’engagement croissant de la Chine dans le 
développement des échanges Sud -Sud. 
5.135.   En conclusion, le Cap Vert encourage l a Chine à poursuivre ses réformes courageuses et 
invite les Membres à la soutenir et à l’accompagner pour atteindre ses objectifs de développement 
et de progrès social.  
ANGOLA  
5.136.   The delegation of Angola would like to congratulate China on its 8th Trade Polic y Review 
presentation and discussion. We have carefully read the report from China to find an excellent, 
detailed document that highlights, with transparency, all of the achievements, objectives, policies, 
and practices that have been undertaken in the tra de sector. Angola is particularly impressed with 
China's continuous and stable recovery of the economy after the damaging impacts of the pandemic 
crisis, which gives a positive impulse towards world trade.  
5.137.   Angola takes note, with interest, of China's imple mentation 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 tra de 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 instit utions 
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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.138.   The Angolan delegatio n also wants to thank the analytical report from the Trade Policy 
Review Body Secretariat, that provides us with a proper review of the 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.  
5.139.   Angola has enjoyed excellent trade relations with the People's Republic of China since 
Janua ry 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, echoing the pandemic crisis effects.  
5.140.   Nonetheless, statistics show that Angola still is the leading African exporter to Chin a, due to 
the significant crude oil sales, accounting for 98% of bilateral exports and more than 60% of this 
national sector participation in the world market. At the same time, Angola is the second main 
destination of Chinese investment in Africa and a su bstantial financial loans recipient.  
5.141.   Nowadays, the China -Angola Chamber of Commerce registers almost 200 Angolan 
companies and more than 100 Chinese companies, that are interested in widening the trade portfolio 
towards new areas of transport and logistic s, banking, insurance, capital markets, tourism, housing, 
culture, health, education, innovation, information, and communication technology. 
Notwithstanding, there is still room for improving trade in mineral resources, agricultural production, 
reindustria lization, and infrastructures modernization, areas in which Angola would like to rely on 
Chinese investment and cooperation to generate more domestic jobs and social improvement.  
5.142.   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.  
5.143.   Finally, the Republic of Angola reiterates its wish to reinforce economic cooperation and 
diplomatic relatio ns 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.  
5.144.   Thank yo u Chair for your patience, congratulations to China for an excellent and valuable 
Trade Policy Review.  
TCHAD  AU NOM  DU GROUPE  DES  PMA 
5.145.   Honorable délégation de la République Populaire de Chine dirigée par S.E M. Wang Wentao, 
Ministre du Commerce et qui inclu t S.E. M. Wang Shouwen, Vice -Ministre et S.E M. Chenggang Li, 
Représentant Permanent auprès de l'OMC.  
5.146.   Au nom du Groupe des PMA, la République du Tchad souhaite féliciter vivement la délégation 
de la Chine pour la tenue de son 8ème Examen des politiques com merciales à l’OMC. Nous félicitons 
également S.E. Mme Mlumbi -Peter, Ambassadeur de l'Afrique du Sud, pour son excellent travail 
réalisé en tant que présentatrice, ainsi que le Secrétariat de l’OMC pour l’établissement du rapport 
d'Examen de politique comme rciale.  
5.147.   La Chine est un acteur de premier plan du commerce mondial. Comme le souligne le rapport 
du Secrétariat, et malgré le ralentissement récent et temporaire de ses taux de croissance 
économique, la Chine demeure l'un des principaux moteurs de la crois sance mondiale. L'essor rapide 
de l'économie chinoise observé tout au long des dernières décennies, guidé par des réformes 
habillement axées sur le marché, a permis de sortir des centaines de millions de personnes de la 
pauvreté.  
5.148.   Comme le reste des Membres  de l’OMC, la Chine fait face à une situation économique 
délicate, du fait des effets de la pandémie de COVID -19 qui continuent d'affecter diverses régions 
du monde. Le taux de croissance du PIB en Chine est passé de 7% pendant la période 2016 -2018 à WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  6% en  2019 et 2,3% en 2020. Toutefois, il est prévu pour cette année 2021 que la croissance 
atteindra de nouveau 6%, avec la normalisation attendue des activités économiques.  
5.149.   Ainsi, les fondamentaux de l’économie chinoise demeurent solides face à la crise actue lle. 
Les flux entrants d'investissement étranger direct (IED) annuels en Chine ont continué à progresser. 
L'inflation reste maîtrisée, variant entre -0,5% et 3,8% durant la période de ce 8ème Examen, et 
des réformes structurelles continuent d'être engagées  pour améliorer l’efficacité du secteur privé et 
augmenter les recettes perçues, ainsi que pour faire face au changement climatique.  
5.150.   Nous félicitions les autorités de la République Populaire de Chine pour ces résultats 
économiques impressionnants qui force nt le respect et démontrent à souhait le pouvoir du commerce 
comme outil pour réaliser les aspirations légitimes de développement. Un grand pouvoir implique de 
grandes responsabilités.  
5.151.   La Chine est un Membre actif et important du système commercial multil atéral, soucieux de 
renforcer le système et d'aider à la réalisation de ses objectifs, tels que mentionnés dans le 
préambule de l'Accord de Marrakech.  
5.152.   La Chine est également un partenaire important et actif de la coopération sud -sud. Nous la 
remercions d' avoir sponsorisé le Dialogue Sud -Sud sur les PMA et le développement dont la 
quatrième édition intitulée "Renforcer le système commercial multilatéral pour le développement" 
s'est tenue à Montreux en septembre dernier et nous a permis d'approfondir nos dis cussions.  
5.153.   Nous saluons également le programme destiné à aider les PMA en accession à l’OMC. La 
Chine fournit par le biais dudit programme une assistance technique et du soutien en termes de 
renforcement de capacités. Depuis la création de ce programme, neu f tables rondes réunissant des 
PMA, la Chine et d’autres pays en développement, ont été organisées. La dernière s’est tenue en 
mars 2021.   
5.154.   S’agissant des relations commerciales avec les PMA, la Chine est notre premier partenaire 
commercial en valeur et no tre Groupe à l’OMC se félicite des initiatives prises par la Chine, en 
particulier depuis la Conférence ministérielle de Hong Kong, en 2005, pour développer les échanges 
commerciaux et l’accès au marché.  
5.155.   Les préférences accordées par la Chine aux PMA touchent aussi bien l’accès au marché en 
franchise de droits et sans contingent pour 97% des marchandises, qu'un accès facilité pour les 
fournisseurs de services, issus de PMA, de même que la mise en place de règles d’origine 
préférentielles répondant à la décision de Nairobi en 2015.  
5.156.   Ce sont des éléments de traitement spécial et différencié fondamentaux pour notre Groupe, 
en reconnaissance des contraintes et des difficultés particulières auxquelles nous faiso ns face et qui 
visent à faciliter notre intégration au commerce mondial.  
5.157.   Nous espérons que les acquis pourront se consolider dans le futur. Le Groupe des PMA 
apprécie vivement les soutiens que la Chine est en mesure d’apporter aux PMA dans le cadre des 
négociations en cours à l’OMC et dans le cadre travaux des organes ordinaire s, mais également 
l’appui au programme du cadre intégré renforcé, qui reste un outil pertinent en faveur des PMA dans 
le cadre du système commercial multilatéral, et ainsi renforcer davantage la capacité institutionnelle 
et productive des PMA, y compris ce ux en cours de graduation, et ce conformément aux objectifs de 
développement durable.  
5.158.   Tout comme la Chine, le groupe des PMA souhaite l’existence d’un système commercial 
multilatéral renforcé, basé sur des règles justes, transparentes et inclusives. Nous aspirons 
également à une croissance et à un développement durable bénéficiant à nos populations.  
5.159.   Enfin, nous escomptons un approfondissement fructueux de nos relations de commerce avec 
la Chine.  
5.160.   Le Groupe des PMA saisit cette occasion pour renouveler ses félicitations à la Chine pour ses 
initiatives et ses réformes engagées. Nous lui souhaitons un plein succès dans l’avenir et dans le 
cadre de cet Examen des politiques commerciales  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  MONGOLIA  
5.161.   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.  
5.162.   China is an important and longstanding 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 two countries has been growing in recent decades, r eaching USD 8.8 billion in 
2019. However, the volume has decreased in 2020 by 16% over the previous year.  
5.163.   Mongolia is pleased to see China’s active and constructive role in the multilateral trading 
system. We are confident that the TPR meeting would provid e 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 appreciate the efforts made by China 
in the implementation  of the TFA.  
5.164.   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 
underlines that China’s initiative on achieving shared gro wth 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.  
5.165.   Mongolia expresses sincere 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.  
5.166.   Mongolia would greatly appreciate if China could provide 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 situation where, for various reasons, ports are not ab le 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 rules and procedures for goods in transit, in order t o 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 rules and regulations?  
4. Could China provide detailed in formation on the paperless application procedures for imports 
and customs clearance for goods subject to non -automatic import licensing regime, including 
meat and dairy products? (paragraph 3.6 of the WT/TPR/G/415)  
5. What are the expected economic expectatio ns for China from joining the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement? (paragraph 3.24 of the WT/TPR/G/415)  
6. Due to the COVID -19 pandemic, the LLDCs’ situation has worsened by border closures and 
sanitary measures imposed by countries across t he 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 goods to ensure 
its commitments to take down barriers in facilitating trade and transit transport? 
(paragraphs  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) programme? (paragraph 3.12 of the WT/T PR/S/415).  
 
5.167.   We express appreciation to the delegation of China for the hard work in preparing for this 
TPR and wish a successful Review.  
MYANMAR  
5.168.   Myanmar aligns itself with the ASEAN statement made by Permanent Representative of 
Brunei Darussalam.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.169.   My delegation would like to join others in welcoming the China delegation led by 
H.E. Mr. Wang Wentao, Minister for Commerce of China.  
5.170.   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.  
5.171.   Our appreciation also goes to the Government of China and WTO Secretariat for the reports.  
5.172.   Myanm ar 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 strengthened our ties with mutual trust, friendliness a nd close cooperation.  
5.173.   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 
Coordinating and Cooperation Committee (JBTCCC), RCE P and WTO.  
5.174.   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 major trading partner of Myanmar both in e xports and imports.  
5.175.   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 markets. In this regard, according to World B ank Doing Business Report 2020, China 
is among the top ten economies with the greatest improvement in the global business environment 
for 2 consecutive years.  
5.176.   It is also noteworthy that even in the time of COVID -19 and the global economic downturn, 
China h as 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.  
5.177.   According to the statistics from Myanmar, 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 supply chains.   
5.178.   China’s aim to expand internat ional 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.  
5.179.   Myanmar believes China as the strong supporter of multilate ral trading system and would 
like to thank China for its contributions 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 a nd 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.  
5.180.   Before I conclude, I would like to thank China not only for its do nation of vaccines and 
medical products to Myanmar but also for selling the vaccines and sharing experience for prevention, 
control and fight against COVID -19. 
5.181.   I wish China every success in its 8th TPR process.  
PERÚ  
5.182.   En primer lugar, quisiera hacer llegar e l saludo del Perú a S.E. el señor Wang Wentao, 
Ministro de Comercio de China, y hacer extensivo este saludo a toda la delegación de China, en 
particular al distinguido Embajador Li, y a los miembros de la Misión de su país en Ginebra.  
5.183.   La delegación del Pe rú agradece al señor Wang por la exposición que nos ha ofrecido, y a la 
Embajadora Mlumbi -Peter, por sus valiosos comentarios como ponente.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.184.   El contexto ha cambiado significativamente desde la última vez en la que China hiciera un 
examen de este tipo. Los desafíos que el comercio internacional y el sistema multilateral tenían 
entonces son hoy más evidentes y, por ello, un esfuerzo por cooperar es una necesidad más urgente.  
5.185.   En ese sentido, el Perú saluda que China renueve su compromiso con el comercio 
internacional y la tarea de hacerlo más justo e inclusivo, de modo que todos podamos beneficiarnos 
de él en favor del desarrollo y la prosperidad de nuestros pueblos.  
5.186.   Permítame referirme brevemente a la relación comercial del Perú con China, nuestro 
principal s ocio comercial.  
5.187.   Para el Perú, China es el principal destino y origen de los bienes que comercia con el mundo, 
y nuestra relación está principalmente basada en la exportación peruana de minerales y la 
exportación china de maquinarias, vehículos y equipos.  
5.188.   Nuestro comercio bilateral ha crecido continuamente a lo largo de los últimos años, 
manteniéndose por encima de los 20 000 millones de dólares US$, incluso en 2020, año en el que 
nuestro comercio bilateral decreció en un 5% debido a la pandemia principalmen te. Siendo nuestro 
deseo que esta fructífera relación comercial siga incrementándose y diversificándose en los años 
venideros, en el marco de la anunciada aceleración de la apertura comercial china.  
5.189.   Esta promisoria dinámica va acompañada de estrechos lazos  políticos y culturales, fruto de 
las históricas relaciones bilaterales que se remontan al siglo XIX, de la cooperación y de los intereses 
económicos que compartimos.  
5.190.   Como una muestra de la importancia de nuestra relación económica, el Perú y China 
dispon en de un Tratado de Libre Comercio en vigor desde 2010, que ha permitido la creación de un 
marco idóneo para el desarrollo y crecimiento del comercio entre nuestros pueblos.  
5.191.   En este aspecto, quisiera resaltar que las inversiones procedentes de China en el  Perú son 
considerables, y se extienden a través de diversos sectores de nuestra economía, como la minería 
y la construcción. Mi país está convencido de que China mantendrá sus esfuerzos para que sus 
inversiones en el Perú contribuyan con el desarrollo sos tenible y respetuoso del medioambiente al 
que mi país aspira.  
5.192.   El Perú toma nota y seguirá con interés dos puntos contenidos en los informes que forman 
parte del presente examen: por un lado, la nueva política china para poner fin a las subvenciones a 
los combustibles y a la construcción de barcos, así como para mejorar la prevención de la pesca 
ilegal, no declarada y no reglamentada; y, de otro lado, el anunciado ajuste de la matriz energética 
china, basada principalmente en el desarroll o de energías limpias y con bajas emisiones de carbono.  
5.193.   Pasando al sistema multilateral, valoramos debidamente que este Examen haya servido de 
marco para que China renueve su compromiso con la estabilidad y la solidez del sistema, dado que 
su mantenimiento  y fortalecimiento sólo estará garantizado mediante el compromiso de todos los 
Miembros con el cumplimiento de las obligaciones que hemos acordado.  
5.194.   Saludamos el activo rol y los esfuerzos de China en este foro, y estamos convencidos de que 
está presta a as umir el rol que le corresponde, de acuerdo a la envergadura de su economía y sus 
capacidades, con las responsabilidades que ello conlleva en el marco del sistema de comercio 
internacional.  
5.195.   Agradecemos la disposición de China al diálogo y a su notoria parti cipación en las 
negociaciones de diversos aspectos de la agenda de esta Organización, por lo que los alentamos a 
mantener el esfuerzo durante los próximos meses, cruciales para hacer que la Conferencia Ministerial 
de este año tenga los resultados sustantiv os que todos queremos.  
5.196.   Habiendo señalado estos importantes puntos, solo me resta agradecer a la delegación china 
por este ejercicio, y desearle un exitoso Examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  TUNISIE  
5.197.   Ma délégation a le plaisir de participer au 8ème EPC de la Chine, grand acteur dans le 
commerce mondial, et souhaite la bienvenue à la délégation chinoise conduite par S.E. M. Wang 
Wentao, Ministre du Commerce de la Chine, à qui nous voudrions exprimer not re considération pour 
l’exposé exhaustif sur la situation économique et la politique commerciale de son pays.  
5.198.   Nos félicitations s’adressent également au Secrétariat pour le rapport complet qu’il nous a 
soumis à l’occasion de cet Examen et à la présentatri ce, S.E l'Ambassadeur Mulumbi -Peter, pour la 
pertinence des remarques qu’elle a développées.  
5.199.   Ma délégation tient à souligner que l'économie chinoise a continué sur la période d’examen 
à être un moteur important de la croissance mondiale. Le taux de croissa nce positif du PIB en 2020, 
dans une conjoncture sans précédent impactée par la pandémie, dénote de la solidité du système 
économique chinois et de sa capacité à s’adapter efficacement aux crises.  
5.200.   L'évolution structurelle de l'économie chinoise, qui s'est détournée de l'agriculture et de 
l'industrie au profit des services, a largement facilité cette rapide adaptabilité et a également 
contribué aux progrès remarquables qui ont été accomplis en matière de lutte contre la pauvreté 
ces dernières décennies.  
5.201.   La pandémie a été une occasion, de plus, pour la Chine pour réaffirmer sa contribution 
importante aux chaînes de valeur mondiales, permettant, notamment, d’atténuer certaines des 
pénuries liées à la pandémie et des distorsions commerciales qui se sont produite s. Nous remercions, 
également les autorités chinoises de l’élan de solidarité qu’elles ont montré en partageant les vaccins 
et les équipements médicaux.  
5.202.   A cet égard, mon pays est reconnaissant que la Chine ait été l’un des premiers pays amis à 
participer à  l’élan de solidarité qui a permis à la Tunisie de sortir d’une grave crise sanitaire. Nous 
œuvrons à institutionnaliser cette coopération avec la Chine dans le cadre de la volonté de la Tunisie 
à mettre à profit son savoir -faire et ses capacités de produc tion dans la recherche d’augmentation 
de la production mondiale des vaccins.  
5.203.   Nous notons, par ailleurs, que la période d’examen a particulièrement montré le 
développement des investissements internationaux de la Chine qui a poursuivi une politique active 
à attirer les investissements locaux et étrangers, mais également à s’ouvrir sur le monde en 
multipliant la conclusion d’accords avec les différents partenaires. Ce qui dénote de la place 
prépondérante qu’accorde la Chine au système commercial multilatéral  et aux accords commerciaux 
régionaux.  
5.204.   A ce titre, la Chine, Membre très actif de l'OMC, pourrait jouer un rôle de premier plan dans 
la conclusion de plusieurs accords en cours de négociation, y compris, le commerce électronique et 
la durabilité de la pêc he. 
5.205.   Par ailleurs, les efforts enregistrés de la Chine dans le cadre sa politique de restructuration 
industrielle et l'optimisation de la structure énergétique pour faire face au changement climatique 
gagneraient à être renforcer à travers des mesures plus efficaces pour la réduction des émissions 
de carbone.  
5.206.   La Tunisie et la Chine fêtent des relations diplomatiques de près de 60 ans et entretiennent 
des relations privilégiées d’amitié et de coopération commerciale, technique et financière.  
5.207.   La coopération a ux plans économique et commercial s’inscrivent dans un cade mutuellement 
bénéfique et gagnant -gagnant. La Chine participe, à ce titre, à plusieurs grands projets en Tunisie 
et la Tunisie bénéficie d’un transfert technologique et d’une assistance financière  conséquente.   
5.208.   Les deux pays œuvrent en étroite collaboration pour promouvoir la mise en œuvre des acquis 
du Sommet de Beijing 2018 du Forum sur la coopération sino -africaine.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.209.   Par ailleurs, la Chine, actuellement troisième source des importations tunisie nnes, occupe la 
première place en matière de déficit commercial de la Tunisie. Ce déficit ne cesse d’accroitre ces 
dernières années et avoisine les 25% du total du déficit de la balance commerciale du pays.  
5.210.   La Tunisie reste déterminée à renforcer et à con solider sa coopération avec la Chine dans 
tous les domaines et salue sa volonté d’accélérer les processus, déjà entamés, d'octroi des 
autorisations nécessaires pour commercialiser certains produits agricoles et alimentaires tunisiens 
en Chine, tels que les  céréales, les légumes, la viande et les produits de la mer et encourage l’élan 
des augmentations conséquentes de nombre de touristes chinois en Tunisie.  
5.211.   Enfin, nous tenons à féliciter S. E. l'Ambassadeur Chenggang, le Représentant Permanent 
de la Chine au près de l’OMC, ainsi que son équipe pour leur engagement actif aux travaux de l’OMC, 
et nous souhaitons à la Chine un examen très fructueux de sa politique commerciale.  
NIGERIA  
5.212.   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. Ms. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, Ambassador to WTO of South Africa for her insightful 
remarks. We thank the Chinese Government and the Secr etariat 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 active 
participation in the ongoing WTO negotiations.  
5.213.   Since the last review of China, we note from the Secretariat report that the Chinese economy 
has been a crucial catalyst for global growth. Remarkably, China’s GDP per capita recorded a 
considerable increase in 2020. With the lon g-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 market -oriented reforms and high 
GDP growth ra te is responsible for the impressive progress of the country on poverty alleviation.  
5.214.   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 inte rnational trade.  
5.215.   China is one of Nigeria’s closest trading partners and the relations between Nigeria and China 
have considerably 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.  
5.216.   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 obligations including the Marrakech 
Agreement and its covered agreements.  
5.217.   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 committees 
of the WTO.  
5.218.   We also commend China’s active participation in the joint statement initiatives on electronic 
commerce, investment facil itation for development, MSMEs and domestic regulation in services of 
which Nigeria is a party. We shall continue to work closely with China in the various negotiations.  
5.219.   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.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.220.   On intellectual property, we urge China to increa se its efforts in regulating IP within the 
country.  
5.221.   We are pleased to note that China continues to grant unilateral preferences to least 
developed countries and have implemented zero tariffs on 97% of taxable items for LDCs. We also 
commend China’s generou s donations at the aid for trade. We would be pleased increased export of 
non-oil products from Nigeria to China in order to contribute to our development goals.  
5.222.   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 efforts being put in place by WTO 
Members and show more flexibility where necessary to reach convergence in various WTO 
negotiation issues with a view to achieving a successful MC12 with fruit ful outcomes.   
5.223.   We wish the People’s Republic of China a successful 8th Trade Policy Review exercise.  
REPÚBLICA  BOLIVARIANA  DE VENEZUELA  
5.224.   La delegación de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela desea dar una cálida bienvenida a la 
delegación de la República de la República Popular de China encabezada por el Sr. Wang Wentao, 
Ministro de comercio, quienes hoy nos acompañan para mostrarnos los progresos alcanzados por su 
país en materia económica, comercial y social desde el pasado Examen de políticas comerciale s.  
5.225.   También queremos agradecer a la Embajadora de Sudáfrica, Sra. Xolelwa Mlumbi -Peter, por 
sus asertivas palabras introductorias, que, junto con el informe presentado por el jefe de la 
delegación China, nos ubican adecuadamente en contexto. Igualmente, nu estro agradecimiento es 
extensivo a la Secretaría por la organización y documentación.  
5.226.   Este Examen de políticas comerciales tiene como especial característica que se celebra en la 
víspera del décimo aniversario de su adhesión a esta Organización, realizada  el 1 de diciembre 2001. 
En este sentido, me complace sumar a la República Bolivariana de Venezuela a la considerable lista 
de Miembros que han reconocido en China a un estratégico y confiable socio comercial, a la vez que 
reconocemos los esfuerzos despleg ados por China para adecuarse a los compromisos adquiridos tras 
su adhesión a la OMC y valoramos su liderazgo en la defensa de los principios originarios de esta 
Organización como, por ejemplo, el principio de Trato Especial y Diferenciado para los países en 
desarrollo.  
5.227.   Los nexos de cooperación bilateral entre China y Venezuela son sólidos y comprenden un 
destino común para el desarrollo, los cuales seguimos profundizando a través de la Asociación 
Estratégica Integral China -Venezuela y los mecanismos establ ecidos por la Comisión Mixta, para 
continuar trabajando en la cooperación comercial, en la salud, en el espacio, comunicacional, 
satelital, petrolera, energética, minera, financiera, militar y cultural "de alto vuelo y a todo nivel"  
5.228.   Compartimos visiones co munes en lo político, económico y social, teniendo como norte el 
máximo beneficio para nuestros pueblos. Rememorando palabras de nuestro Presidente Nicolás 
Maduro, las dos naciones están "más unidas que nunca" en lo que calificamos como una "hermandad 
indestructible".    
5.229.   Reconocemos el apoyo pleno de China a la cooperación mundial en la lucha contra la 
COVID -19. Como bien señala el informe presentado por China correspondiente al octavo Examen de 
la política comercial para el periodo 2018 -2020, en el documen to WT/TPR/G/415, China ha 
contribuido a mantener la estabilidad de las cadenas industriales y de suministro mundiales y a crear 
una comunidad sanitaria mundial para la humanidad. Destacamos la participación de China en el 
mecanismo COVAX impulsado por la O rganización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), su compromiso por 
donar un primer lote de 10 millones de dosis de vacunas a los países en desarrollo que las necesitan 
con urgencia, así como las vacunas que son donadas a 85 Miembros en desarrollo, entre ellos 
Venezu ela. 
5.230.   En el plano internacional, compartimos ideales y defendemos principios comunes. En este 
sentido, adversamos toda pretensión hegemónica de quienes quieran atentar contra la soberanía de 
los Estados mediante la imposición de ilegales y criminales medidas coe rcitivas unilaterales. 
Nuestros Cancilleres en el marco del 76º Asamblea General de la ONU reafirmaron su rechazo mutuo WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  a las medidas coercitivas, la injerencia en los asuntos internos de los Estados y la tendencia al 
unilateralismo. Las consecuencias de l a aplicación de este tipo de medidas ilegales e inhumanas son 
reconocidas por el propio Sistema de Naciones Unidas y son condenadas por el sistema multilateral. 
En el documento final de la reciente XV Conferencia de las Naciones Unidas para el Comercio y e l 
Desarrollo (UNCTAD), se instó nuevamente a los Estados a que se abstengan de promulgar y aplicar 
cualquier medida económica, financiera o comercial unilateral que no sea conforme con el derecho 
internacional y la Carta de las Naciones Unidas, a la luz de  la preocupación por el carácter restrictivo 
y las implicaciones para el desarrollo de dichas medidas que repercuten negativamente en el 
bienestar de las poblaciones y que pueden impedir la plena consecución del desarrollo económico y 
social en los Estados  afectados, así como perjudicar sus relaciones comerciales.  
5.231.   Otro aspecto que resaltamos de China es la iniciativa "Cinturón y Ruta", a través de la cual 
ese país promueve la defensa por el principio de compartir los beneficios mediante la consulta y la 
colaboración, promoviendo la cooperación con todas las partes. En ese sentido, Venezuela se ha 
sumado en distintos eventos, ámbitos y sectores donde se viene desarrollando dicha iniciativa, para 
la búsqueda del equilibrio mundial en el comercio.  
5.232.   Reconocemos el nivel de compromiso que tiene China con la cooperación Sur -Sur, con el 
objetivo de contribuir a que la globalización económica sea más abierta, inclusiva, equilibrada y 
beneficiosa para todos. Agradecemos el apoyo de China al liderazgo de Venezuela en l a región de 
América Latina y el Caribe y estamos comprometidos en avanzar en las relaciones entre China y 
América Latina y el Caribe, a través de la Comunidad de Estados Latinoamericanos y Caribeños 
(CELAC) y ALBA -TCP, con miras a lograr el éxito de la ven idera III Reunión del Foro China -CELAC.  
5.233.   Antes de culminar, deseamos felicitar también al Embajador Li Chenggang, Representante 
Permanente de China ante la OMC, por sus esfuerzos y contribuciones a los trabajos llevados a cabo 
en esta Organización.  
5.234.   Al desea rle a la República Popular de China un exitoso Examen de política comercial, 
queremos reafirmar nuestra mejor voluntad de fortalecer los lazos comerciales con ese país, así 
como el compromiso compartido con la conformación de un sistema de comercio multila teral, 
robusto, solidario, justo y predecible, basado en normas comunes y transparentes.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.235.   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.  
5.236.   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 pa rtner for many 
of the Members present in this Review. 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.  
5.237.   We would also encourage China to provide complete and transparent replies, in order to 
further the goals of this review in a responsible and effective manner. We hope that the follow -up 
questions that we have submitted on s tate-owned enterprises, export credits, subsidies, intellectual 
property, just to name a few areas, will be answered in this spirit.  
5.238.   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 
no longer correspond to the weight it has in the global economy and does not allow other Members 
comparable access to China’s markets.  
5.239.   In his opening statement, Minister Wang emphasized China’s commitment to a transparent, 
non-discriminatory, open and inclusive rules -based multilateral trading system. We share these 
values fully.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.240.   Minister Wang also underlined that China has been abiding by WTO rules and fulfilling its 
accession commitments.  
5.241.   For EU traders, and traders of several oth er Members who have intervened on the first day, 
I have to comment that the reality on the ground sometimes feels different. Those interventions 
pointed to some longstanding concerns that remain. A level playing field has not been achieved, 
notably due to pervasive State influence in the economy, with concerns focused 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 co mpanies, 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.  
5.242.   Many have also echoed worrying new trends that seem to go in the opposite direction of 
liberalization, notably the in creasing role of the State or the politicization of the business 
environment.  
5.243.   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 eff orts 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 
dismantling of trade barriers and a fair a ccess to China’s markets for our businesses.  
5.244.   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 be lieve that this should imply China not claiming special and differential 
treatment benefits in any ongoing negotiations.  
5.245.   We very much welcome China’s stated commitment to WTO reform, a process where the 
European Union sees China as a key partner.  
5.246.   As affir med 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.  
5.247.   The European Union calls on China to contribute to this process, both by observing its 
accession commitments and all its W TO obligations in law and in spirit, as well as by contributing 
constructively to a collective effort to reform the multilateral trading system.  
5.248.   In concluding, I would like very much to express once more the EU's appreciation to the 
whole delegation of Ch ina for their participation and their valuable contributions to this Review of 
China which we have welcomed.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.249.   Today we would like to make a few observations in light of the discussions that took place 
on Wednesday and today, and then we will e xplain the concerns that underlie some of our more 
important follow -up questions, which we submitted earlier today.  
5.250.   As we listened on Wednesday and today, we heard one overarching theme from a large 
number of Members. Looking back over the twenty years sin ce China’s accession to the WTO, these 
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 approach to 
trade and the economy. Thes e Members therefore called once again for China to embrace open, 
market -oriented policies.  
5.251.   We also heard Members identify a number of specific problems with China’s trade regime.  
These problems included:  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  • Industrial policies that skew the playing field aga inst 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 enterprises that contributes 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 desi gned 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.  
 
5.252.   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.   
5.253.   We hold out hope that China will take the initiati ve to address each of these problems.  
5.254.   We note, however, that almost all of these same problems were identified during China’s 
Trade Policy Review three years ago, yet they persist.  
5.255.   On Wednesday and today, we also heard Members raise concerns about China’s approach 
here at the WTO.   
5.256.   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 negotiations.  
5.257.   Consistent with the Secretariat’s report, many Members also raised concerns about China’s 
inadequate adherence to 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.  
5.258.   The United States fully supports these sentiments.  
5.259.   Finally, let me hig hlight some of our follow -up questions.  
5.260.   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 report also highlighted this is sue. China’s brief response to numerous U.S. questions 
about these government guidance funds 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 
not responsive to most of the questions asked by the United States.  
5.261.   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) fishing and distant water fish ing. 
5.262.   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 materials, SPS measures , China’s Foreign Investment 
Negative List, services market access and the Belt and Road Initiative, among other topics.  
5.263.   We look forward to China’s responses to all of these follow -up questions. That conclude our 
comments.  
JAPAN  
5.264.   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 WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  Wentao and the insightful comments and remarks made by the discussant,  Ambassador 
Mlumbi -Peter.  
5.265.   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 o ver 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 partner and a responsi ble major economy, to sincerely address the Members’ 
comments and to fully avail of this chance to effect positive change.  
5.266.   This morning, we submitted additional questions on matters, on which we believe China’s 
answers are not yet adequately clear or suffi cient. We look forward to receiving lucid and sincere 
responses to our questions from China.  
CHILE  
5.267.   Gracias presidenta por darnos la oportunidad de hacer esta segunda intervención en este 
Examen de las Políticas Comerciales de China.  
5.268.   Lamentablemente no pude  estar presente en la sesión del miércoles por estar presidiendo 
las negociaciones sobre Facilitación de Inversiones para el Desarrollo. Justamente, hoy quería 
agradecer a China por su compromiso con esta importante Iniciativa Conjunta, la que convoca la 
mayor cantidad de Miembros de la OMC. El liderazgo de China y en especial su rol de coordinador 
del Grupo de Amigos de la Facilitación de Inversiones han sido claves para que este proceso avance 
de una manera sostenida con resultados concretos que los parti cipantes esperan presentar a los 
Ministros a fines de noviembre en la forma de un texto “lo más limpio posible”. Como coordinador 
de dicha Iniciativa quiera personalmente agradecer el involucramiento del Embajador Li en las 
negociaciones y sus esfuerzos pa ra atraer nuevos participantes. Muchas gracias Chenggang.  
5.269.   Aprovecho también de resaltar el importante papel que juega China en el Foro de 
Cooperación del Asia Pacífico (APEC). Compartimos intereses sobre los objetivos del Foro y sobre la 
visión para la próxima década. Durante nuestro Año APEC en 2019, China apoyó  todas nuestras 
prioridades: conectividad, economía digital, desarrollo inclusivo, mujeres y PYMES y desarrollo 
sustentable. Durante la reunión de Ministros Responsables de Comercio de APEC de ese año 2019, 
el Embajador Li como jefe de delegación fue actor  importante para lograr la primera declaración 
ministerial consensuada después de muchos años, con un fuerte apoyo al sistema multilateral de 
comercio basado en reglas no discriminatorias. Hoy trabajamos con China en APEC en temas como 
Smart Cities, inclus ión en materia de comercio y en el Plan de Acción sobre Ventanilla Única. China 
también lidera el pilar sobre Trade in Value Added de nuestro BluePrint 2.0 y dos puertos chilenos 
se han incorporado a la iniciativa China APEC e -port model network, por nombr ar algunos proyectos 
conjuntos.  
5.270.   Tal como lo señalamos el miércoles, deseamos éxito a China en este nuevo examen de su 
política comercial.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
5.271.   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 the Chinese delegation for their approach to thi s 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 our Chinese 
colleagues busy.  
5.272.   As others have sai d, 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 impact on that global trading system.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.273.   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 welcomed across the WTO Membership.  
5.274.   The Minister al so 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.  
5.275.   The issue here, I think, is not about China’s stated intention to work with Members, it’s about 
China’s ability to demonstra te 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 sha red 
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.  
5.276.   Our own expectation is that China will follow through on the statements i t 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 Br itish firms operating in China and those 
British firms partnering with or indeed competing with Chinese firms.  
5.277.   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.  
AUTRALIA  
5.278.   Thank you , Ambassador Molokomme and thank also to friends Ambassadors Chengg ang and 
Mlumbi -Peter for your able management of these important proceedings, and, of course, Vice 
Minister Wang Shouwen’s  presence here today, virtually.  
5.279.   As some have just said, the high level 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.  
5.280.   Minister Wang Wentao on Wednesday referenced the need to safeguard the rules -based 
multilateral tra ding system that is transparent, non -discriminatory, opened and inclusive. Australia 
encourages China to give full of it to that vision.  
5.281.   We note the wide range of concerns raised by Members during the meeting, including in 
relation to state -owned enterpri ses, non -market policies and practices, problematic sanitary and 
phytosanitary measures, market distorting subsidies, inadequate transparency, and investment 
restrictions.  
5.282.   We note Vice Minister comments today and on Wednesday. We stand fully by that statem ent. 
5.283.   Members have clearly called during this Review for China, the world’s second largest 
economy, to do more to fully run its practices within its WTO obligations and Australia encourages 
China to adhere to those rules and not only to claim to do so.  
5.284.   While Australia welcomed China’s trade commitment to transparency, the answers received 
to our questions unfortunately have not alleviated our key concerns on China’s trade practices. 
Australia has submitted a number of follow -up questions to the Secretariat i n order to seek additional 
information. We urge China to reflect on all the messages delivered during this Trade Policy Review, 
both positive and negative, and to actively and constructively address the genuine concerns 
expressed in the spirit of the TPR p rocess.  WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  5.285.   Australia looks forward to China’s responses to our follow -up questions and to work 
cooperatively with China in a lead -up to MC12.  
PAKISTAN  
5.286.   Pakistan would like to take this opportunity to once again appreciate the Chinese government 
for their conti nued commitment to the multilateral rules -based trading system, for 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 pove rty in record time, how a 
large economy can be structurally transformed while integrating globally, to achieve most 
competitive levels in the world.  
5.287.   As a developing country with a large population, Pakistan is fully cognizant of the huge task 
that compreh ensive and sustainable development entails, particularly when countries 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 budgetary constraints, and technological challenges coupled 
with low productive capacities, against the constraining global requirements of policy reform, 
requirements for relinquishment of poli cy tools, heightened transparency, and uniformity of policy 
approaches. 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 partne rs, 
while contributing towards global prosperity and in taking along 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 parti cular moment, that would achieve 
those aims, of long -term sustainable development.  
5.288.   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. Fortunatel y, for 
today’s advanced countries, during their ascent on the development 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 deadli nes.  
5.289.   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.  
5.290.   It is disappointing 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 subs idies 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 exam ples.  
5.291.   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 nove l concept 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 sharing of newer, greener, and digital technologies China has shown its 
commitment to overcoming new global challenges.  
5.292.   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, 
the ability to form joint -ventures to transfer technology and develop skills and contribute to 
productive capacities in other developing countries. The COVID pandemic overlapping with China’s 
current review period has brought this a pproach to centre stage, where China has not only developed 
and donated vaccines but also readily partnered with countries like ours in crucial research and WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  development, manufacturing and distribution exercises to enhance production and share technical 
know-how.  
5.293.   This gives promise to developing countries for their future that they need not languish in 
poverty with straitjacketed policy approaches 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 
will not call on developing countries to abandon their legitimate policy objectives or relinquish 
development goals.  
5.294.   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 Government for achieving this in an 
exemplary manner.  
5.295.   The WTO remains an institution for all. It must allo w 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 gl obal economy.  
INDIA  
5.296.   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.  
5.297.   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 replies are weak and don’t address our concerns and ques tions. 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.  
5.298.   We also heard from the Vice Minister earlier today morning that Ch ina 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.  
5.299.   We, once again, thank the Chinese delegation for their engagement in this transparency 
exercise.  
H.E.  MR. WANG  SHOUWEN,  VICE MINISTER  OF COMMERCE  AND  DEPUTY  CHINA  INTERNATIONAL  
TRADE  REPRESENTATIVE  
5.300.   I would like to thank the eight Members from the WTO who have just spoken. I particularly 
wish to thank Chile, the Ambassador from Chile, for his role as Chair in the negotiations  on 
investment facilitation . I would like to make the following remarks in response to some of the 
remarks made by the eight speakers.  
5.301.   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.  
5.302.   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 number 2 importer in the world. The same in investment of F DI. Had China restricted 
foreign investment for various unjustified reasons, China’s attraction of foreign direct investment 
would not have grown 5% last year amidst 40% of decline in global flow of FDI last year. Had China 
be 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 marketing market forces playing a role, China’s eco nomy would WT/TPR/W/ 198 • China  
 
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  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 out of poverty.  
5.303.   The third point I wish to make is that China has full y 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, made by the WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism. And China has a good track 
record to implement those r ulings.  
5.304.   A moment ago, a Member mentioned investment restrictions, cross -border data flows. 
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 which are not  provided for in the WTO 
agreements, in the WTO context. This is the third remark I wish to make.  
5.305.   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 l eadership and 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 wa nt to express our gratitude to all Members who have expressed 
their remarks in recognizing China’s efforts, in supporting China’s efforts whether, as Ambassador 
from Australia mentioned, these remarks are negative or positive, we have taken note of them an d 
I want to thank you for those remarks.  
5.306.   WTO Members are now overcoming the difficulties posed by the pandemic, and the 
importance China has attached to this Trade Policy Review itself indicates China’s commitment to 
the multilateral trading system, to th e three pillars of the WTO system. I want to share with you 
that many people from 62 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.  
5.307.   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 w ill be working very hard to give response to your 
questions raised later than October the 6th and we will give you those responses in one -month time.  
5.308.   I do not have sufficient time and I do not intend to adjust all the pertinent remarks made 
by the 8 speake rs, and I am looking forward to having further discussions with you on those issues 
and many others. Here, 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 oppo rtunity to be shared by 
all nations in the world and we will continue to work 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 mi dst of the global pandemic, China is willing to work with all WTO 
Members after 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.  
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  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 o f South Africa to the WTO, for her remarks 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 resilience 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 contrib utor to the multilateral trading system. 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 Memb ers 
urged it to assume more responsibility 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.  Memb ers welcomed China's stated commitment 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. Chi na 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 well 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 agricu ltural 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 e ncouraged to further streamline administrative 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 local 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 a nd 
least-developed countries. In this 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 Members, 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 
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  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 ent erprises was also an issue of interest; 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 commitment s 
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 i ts economy. 
They congratulated China 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 
measu res taken in the context of the COVID -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 regulat ions 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: continuously 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 respect 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 subsidies. 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 th an 1'600, and has provided 
timely replies 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 o f questions and active engagement by 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.  
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