China should defend its turf, says Supachai

New trade protection measures adopted by developed countries like the United States against China will not only sour bilateral relations but also hamper global recovery, Supachai Panitchpakdi, secretary-general of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said on Wednesday.

Urging the nation to defend itself from such attacks, Panitchpakdi said the measures would strain China's economic ties with the US.

In an interview with China Daily, Panitchpakdi said he does not concur with the view of other nations that the investment environment is deteriorating in China.

"China should be more aggressive in defending its turf and be selective in allowing foreign investment," he said.

The UNCTAD chief's comments come at a time when some nations are emerging from the throes of a recession and others are busy withdrawing the massive stimulus packages.

"I am concerned that trade friction between nations is increasing. It may intensify (in the coming months) and China will be a major target and the most frequently attacked nation. They (China) should be aware of this," he said.

Alarmed by rising unemployment and a ballooning trade deficit, the US has started a tirade against China's trade policies and termed them harmful for American companies.

The US Commerce Department said recently that it would monitor the alleged illegal import practices of nations like China and Vietnam, and impose higher duties when required.

He said although "both countries (China and the US) are now doing their best to reduce trade disputes", he still remains concerned "that (Sino-US) trade friction will rise", as "(US) companies are clamoring for more government intervention".

Expressing his concern, he said the lingering disputes would come in the way of a faster global economic recovery.

China has been a victim of trade protectionism recently with the US launching 23 cases against China, accounting for 65 percent of the trade disputes in 2009.