A major verified international story today is the renewed trade tension between China and the United States.
China has opened two investigations into U.S. trade practices, according to official statements reported by AP and Reuters. Chinese authorities said the probes were launched in response to recent U.S. Section 301 investigations announced earlier this month.
One investigation will examine U.S. policies that restrict Chinese goods from entering the American market and limit the export of advanced technology products to China. The second probe focuses on barriers affecting Chinese green energy exports.
Officials said the investigations are expected to continue for six months and could be extended if needed. The move is being seen as another serious step in the long-running trade dispute between the two countries.
Because the United States and China are the world’s two largest economies, any escalation in trade tensions is closely watched by global markets, businesses, and investors.