The World Trade Organization said China submitted a request for consultations with the U.S. on the tariffs. China said the duties are discriminatory.

The tariffs have also provoked political tension, including retaliation from China, which responded to Trump's move with tariffs on US goods and an anti-monopoly probe of Google, among other measures. The speed with which China filed its complaint with the WTO is an indication of Beijing's readiness for the trade fight.

Beijing hit back with its own tariffs and export restrictions after being subjected to levies by President Trump. Trade experts said China appeared to aim for minimal short-term harm while showing the range of its possible responses.