Q: On October 29, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to approve measures that will, starting December 1, 2028, prohibit the authorization of testing laboratories, telecommunications certification bodies and laboratory accreditation bodies located in China and other so-called “non-reciprocal economies.” The measures will also prohibit FCC-related testing, certification and accreditation activities in these economies. What is MOFCOM’s comment?

A: We have noted the relevant developments. For some time, the FCC has repeatedly introduced restrictive measures targeting China despite China’s repeated representations, which has violated the important consensus reached by the Heads of State. These actions have seriously harmed the interests of China and other relevant trading partners, undermined the stability of China-U.S. economic and trade relations, and disrupted global industrial and supply chains. China strongly deplores and rejects these actions, and has already taken countermeasures in response.

As an integral part of the global testing and certification system, Chinese testing laboratories provide cost-effective support for the production and trade of communications electronics and intelligent manufacturing products worldwide. The U.S., in disregard of the objective laws governing global economic development and the international division of labor in industrial cooperation, has interfered with market choices through administrative means and forced through the so-called “onshoring of testing services”. Such moves will increase testing costs for businesses, prolong product delivery and iteration cycles, and ultimately harm the interests of U.S. businesses and consumers. China has previously proposed negotiations on a bilateral mutual recognition agreement on multiple occasions, but the U.S. has responded with an extremely passive and negative attitude.

China remains open to resolving disputes through consultations. We hope the U.S. will heed the calls of the business community, respect market principles, work with China in the same direction, and immediately revoke the relevant measures. If the U.S. insists on going its own way, China will take further necessary measures to firmly safeguard its own legitimate rights and interests. (Released on October 30)