Trade association proposes higher export tax rebate for tires

Liu Yinan, vice chairman of China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals and Chemicals Importers and Exporters, has proposed raising the export rebate for tires to relieve the difficulties facing Chinese tire enterprises.

Liu said that the suggestion made by some enterprises to reduce import duty on rubber is still being considered. He added that at present the high import duty aims to protect the domestic rubber industry so reducing import duty for rubber will make no substantial difference to most tire export enterprises engaged in processing trade.

On the evening of September 11, U.S. local time, White House spokesperson Robert Gibbs, on behalf of President Barack Obama, declared that the U.S. would impose a further 35 percent, 30 percent and 25 percent of ad valorem duty on passenger vehicle and light truck tires imported from China in the next three years. This will take effect on September 26.

On September 14, China officially launched WTO dispute settlement procedures to fight the special safeguard measures adopted by the U.S. to restrict the import of Chinese tires.

Liu said that it will take time for the WTO to register and discuss the procedures, which can sometimes take a considerable amount of time. However, the special safeguard measures adopted by the U.S. to restrict the import of Chinese tires are certain to be implemented.

The China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals and Chemicals Importers and Exporters declared on September 15 that they would consult with the enterprises, take active measures, co-ordinate and resolve operational issues, strive to help enterprises weather the storm and maintain the sound export of Chinese tires.