China loses auto parts trade case

By Harry Stoffer, Crain News Service

Washington DC -- China is unfairly restricting imports of auto parts, an international trade panel has ruled.

If the preliminary decision stands, it would represent China's first loss in a World Trade Organisation (WTO) dispute, according to published reports.

China could appeal or comply by cutting tariffs on imported parts. The WTO is to make a final decision this year.

The US, Canada and the European Union filed complaints about China's tariffs on imported parts. The US trade representative's office said the decision indicates China is not keeping commitments it made when it joined the WTO.

US Senator Debbie Stabenow, said in a statement that the ruling is important but comes too late for many US auto parts companies. She said the decision offers more evidence of the need for an overhaul of US trade policies.

The WTO was not available for comment.

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)

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