China protests US investigation into 2019 trade deal compliance

China has formally protested the United States' decision to investigate Beijing's compliance with the 2019 Phase One trade agreement, calling on Washington to immediately correct what it characterizes as unjust practices. The US Trade Representative launched a Section 301 investigation Friday examining China's implementation of the bilateral economic accord, particularly focusing on structural reforms in intellectual property, technology transfer, and market access commitments.

China's Defense of Trade Record

Chinese Embassy spokesman Liu Pengyu asserted that Beijing has meticulously honored its agreement obligations through enhanced intellectual property protection, increased American imports, and expanded market accessibility. In statements posted on social media platform X, Liu emphasized China's status as "a major country that takes its responsibilities seriously" while expressing firm opposition to what he termed false allegations and related review measures initiated by American trade authorities.

Accusations of US Violations

The Chinese diplomatic response included counter-allegations that Washington has systematically escalated economic pressure against China despite the trade agreement. Liu specifically referenced American export controls and investment restrictions as measures that contradict the agreement's spirit and have inflicted "serious damage to bilateral and trade ties." This reciprocal criticism reflects deepening trade tensions between the world's two largest economies despite previous diplomatic efforts to stabilize commercial relations.

Broader Trade Context

The investigation revives trade disputes that had temporarily eased following the 2019 agreement, which established specific Chinese purchasing commitments and structural reform requirements. The new US probe signals potential reinstatement of tariff measures or other trade restrictions if American officials determine China has failed to adequately implement agreed-upon reforms, particularly regarding technology transfer practices and intellectual property protections.