Hong Kong will file a formal complaint with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) over recent US tariffs, arguing that the US has disregarded the city’s status as a separate customs territory, according to Chief Secretary Eric Chan on February 11, reads a Straits Times’ post.
“This move is completely inconsistent with WTO rules and fails to recognize Hong Kong’s distinct customs territory status,” said Mr. Chan, Hong Kong’s second-highest-ranking official. “We will be submitting a complaint to the WTO about this unjust arrangement,” he added, though specific details were not provided.
Citing Reuters the Straits Times published that the complaint follows the US’s decision to impose a 10% tariff on goods from Hong Kong amid President Donald Trump’s broader crackdown on Chinese imports. This also includes a reversal by the US Postal Service of a suspension on inbound mail and parcels from China and Hong Kong, which had caused confusion for retailers and shipping firms.
Chan criticized the erratic nature of the US policies, stating, “All I can say is that these policies are mercurial.”
Trump’s new measures also involve eliminating the “de minimis” duty exemption for goods valued under US$800, citing concerns over the flow of fentanyl and precursor chemicals into the US.
While Hong Kong has long been a key global trading hub, the imposition of China’s national security law in 2020 led to the US revoking the city’s special status. This has escalated tensions between China and the US, with Washington mandating that goods made in Hong Kong be labeled as made in China, undermining the city's competitive edge.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
