China’s request for a WTO probe into US duties on Chinese-made tires was delayed Monday after the American side raised procedural objections, Reuters reported. Chinese representatives are expected to raise the issue again next month, precipitating an investigation that could take upwards of six months. Beijing argues that the 35% special safeguard duties imposed by the Obama administration in September on imports of Chinese tires “lacked a factual basis” and “violated the international consensus to avoid protectionist measures against the backdrop of the financial and economic crisis.” It is concerned that the tire duties could set a precedent for further trade action against Chinese-made goods. Either side is entitled to contest the result of a WTO probe, pushing the case to a final decision by WTO judges. On Monday, judges rejected a Chinese appeal against a ruling that its restrictions on foreign films, books and other cultural products violate trade rules.
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