China's WTO move sign of confidence, responsibility

Editor's note: China's decision to not seek new special and differential treatment in current and future negotiations at the World Trade Organization demonstrates the commitment of a major developing country. Beijing News spoke with Su Qingyi, a researcher of economics at Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Ji Wenhua, a professor of law with University of International Business and Economics, while Guancha.cn spoke with Zhou Hanmin, chairman of the Shanghai Public Diplomacy Association, about the significance of China's decision. Below are excerpts from these interviews. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

The principle of special and differential treatment is primarily designed to address the limited capacity of developing countries, particularly the least developed ones, to fully comply with international rules. It would be unreasonable to require them to shoulder the same obligations as developed nations.

Yet some critics in the West have continually questioned China's developing-country status. The reality is that since joining the WTO more than two decades ago, China has never taken advantage of the special and differential treatment provisions to seek any unfair gain in trade negotiations.

In fact, in some negotiations, particularly in recent years, China has adopted higher standards than even some developed economies. For instance, in June, China notified the WTO of its expanded zero-tariff policy for the least developed countries that maintain diplomatic relations with it, raising product coverage from 98 percent to 100 percent. The policy, which took effect on Dec 1, 2024, is part of China's broader efforts to further open up to the least developed countries, which many developed economies have not yet done.

China's decision to not seek new SDT provisions in current and future negotiations at the WTO not only responds to external expectations, but also encourages all economies to play a more proactive role in driving the reform of the global governance system. With its strong trade capacity, growing influence in rule-making and comprehensive national strength, China no longer relies on the SDT provisions as the major means to protect its interests. Instead, it is capable of directly participating in core negotiations and effectively asserting its legitimate rights.

The SDT provisions have increasingly been used by some developed members to target China and create divisions among developing countries, which could lead to a stalemate in trade negotiations.

China's decision is aimed at creating the political conditions for advancing a more responsible and rules-based framework.

The move is conducive to reforming the WTO and enhancing its effectiveness. It sends a clear signal to the world: the world will benefit from a more predictable and equitable international trading system, and China is actively contributing to the building of it.

With shorter transitional periods for implementation, Chinese enterprises will need to accelerate technological upgrading, improve compliance practices and adapt to deeper integration into global supply chains. At this stage, it is essential for Chinese companies to strengthen their understanding of environmental, social and governance principles, and respond more effectively.