Li Xingqian, director of the foreign trade department of the Ministry of Commerce, said at a press conference of the State Council that since the beginning of this year, difficulties such as rising raw material prices, poor shipping logistics, large exchange rate fluctuations and rising labor costs have led to rising operating costs of foreign trade enterprises and squeezed profit space. Some foreign trade enterprises "don't want to take orders" and "increase production without increasing profits", Small and medium-sized foreign trade enterprises are more affected. The Ministry of Commerce attaches great importance to this.

In terms of the rise of raw material prices, the analysis shows that the international transmission of prices is the main reason, and the rapid increase of domestic and foreign demand further intensifies the momentum of price rise, which brings great pressure to production enterprises and foreign trade enterprises. Together with local governments and departments, we have closely followed and monitored the price trend of bulk commodities, promoted import diversification, built stable foreign trade channels for bulk commodities, and the prices of some bulk commodities have fallen.

At present, we have introduced a series of measures to track and ensure the delivery of old containers and return containers, and have actively responded to a series of problems related to shipping, including the introduction of new measures in conjunction with the shipping departments. In terms of exchange rate fluctuations, we, together with relevant departments, promote financial institutions to continuously optimize exchange rate hedging products and services, and actively promote the exchange rate hedging business manual for foreign economic and trade enterprises to provide targeted guidance for enterprises to avoid risks.

The Ministry of Commerce has been closely following the practical difficulties faced by foreign trade enterprises. On the basis of in-depth analysis, research and judgment, it will further improve the trade policy toolbox, optimize the business environment, reduce enterprise costs, and support various market players, especially small, medium-sized and micro foreign trade enterprises, to stabilize production and develop healthily.