China Making Policy to Support Tire Industry

By staff reporters Yu Hairong and Huokan

(.com.cn) The Ministry of Commerce is drafting measures to support the tire industry and related sectors to help ease the impact of U.S. tariffs, ministry spokesman Yao Jian said at a news conference on Sept. 15.

Yao said the measures being considered focus on improving the industry's structure and raising technological standards and competitiveness.

He did not specifically mention a possible hike in the 9 percent export tax rebate or a reduction in the 20 percent rubber import tariff, which industry groups are lobbying for.

Yao said further consultations are needed with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and trade unions before the measures are unveiled.