The delegation said it would strive to demonstrate that these imports do not harm the American tyre industry, and it will lobby the US to cease using what it views to be protectionist policies.

"We will not give up on our efforts until they give up the measure," Ge Guorong, deputy manager of Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber, told the China Daily. Zhongce Rubber is one of the three leading tyre exporters to the U.S. Exports to this market accounted for 22 per cent of its annual exports, valued at around $600 million. The company has sent two representatives to the U.S.

Giti Tire has also sent two representatives. "The US proposal cannot hold any water,” said Shen Weijia, executive director of Giti Tire China. “The plan, if Obama eventually agrees, will surely jeopardise our business, but cannot benefit theirs either. It’s absolutely meaningless." Giti Tire exports $200 million in tyres, a large proportion of which goes to the US. "We will incur a huge loss if the measure is introduced," Shen added. "We hope our efforts can take off. If not, we will resort to the Chinese government, appealing to the World Trade Organization. It’s nothing but a trade protectionist policy."

In addition to a presence from Zhongce Rubber and Giti Tire, the China Rubber Industry Association (CRIA) and China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters are also sending representatives to the U.S. The team will visit high-level officials from key American organisations, including the U.S. Trade Representative, U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Treasury. The lobbyist will share their views on why they consider the proposed measures are unfair for Chinese tyre makers.

A source from China’s Ministry of Commerce told the China Daily on condition of anonymity that China will “immediately approach the WTO” should President Obama agree to the proposed measures. This would be the fifth time China has appealed to the World Trade Organisation against the U.S. (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)