China to ‘properly handle’ EU’s WTO requests

China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Wednesday that the country will handle the European Union’s relevant request in accordance with the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) procedures for settling disputes while still protecting its own interests.

The ministry stated China regrets the EU’s decision as it has always conducted its foreign trade according to the WTO’s rules. It added Beijing’s goal is to “strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights” and “create a favourable environment for innovation and business operations.”