China launches dispute at World Trade Organization over Trump's tariffs

(Patria) - China has initiated a dispute at the World Trade Organization (WTO) over tariffs on Chinese goods imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, the Geneva-based body announced yesterday.

Trump on Saturday ordered tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada and China, demanding they halt the flow of fentanyl, as well as illegal immigrants in the case of Canada and Mexico, but later suspended tariffs on the two North American countries.

China, on which Trump imposed a 10 percent tariff on exports, vowed to challenge the move at the WTO.

In a statement cited by the WTO, the Chinese government said the measures appear inconsistent with U.S. obligations under the agreement that led to the creation of the trade body.

"China reserves the right to introduce additional measures and requests regarding the issues raised herein, during consultations, as well as in any potential request for the establishment of a panel," the Chinese statement said.