U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross says the United States is not starting a trade war and accused China of implementing protectionism. China's Foreign Ministry had this response:

HUA CHUNYING CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON "First of all, no matter how hard you try, you cannot pin the label of protectionism on China. Who in the world is now implementing and promoting trade protectionism? Who follows international rules when it suits them, but abandons them when it doesn't? Who is one-sidedly putting their own country's interests first and adopting policies that shift the blame onto others? I think everyone understands and can see that it's crystal clear. Everyone can see the degree of China's openness. We have stressed that having opened up, China will not close the door, but will only open wider. China will continue to keep its door wide open and welcome foreign investment from all countries. Meanwhile, we hope that other countries will keep their doors open for Chinese investors so that bilateral investment and trade cooperation can develop in a more equitable, fair, transparent and open environment. Of course, we will take the necessary measures to firmly defend the legitimate interests of China."