China has accused United States of violating international trade laws because of President Barack Obama's recent decision to impose punitive tariffs of 35 per cent on tires imported from China.

China's Ministry of Commerce said Saturday that it might refer the case to the World trade Organisation as new tariffs not only violated the rules of WTO but also runs against the commitment made by the US at the G20 summit.

On the other hand, White House has defended Obama administration's concerned decision, saying it was not an act of trade-protectionism.

White House said in a statement, "We don't view enforcing trade laws as protectionism."

It should be noted here that the International Trade Commission said in June that tire imports from China had disturbed the US domestic industry.

Tariffs will soar by 35 per cent in the first year, 30 per cent in the second year and 25 per cent in the third year. 

China said the move will harm both countries' interests and could trigger a damaging chain reaction of trade-protectionism.

President Barack Obama is expected to pay a visit to China in November.