Businesses plead to be spared by US tariffs threats

Some 50 US businesses, fearing tariffs on their imports from China, pleaded with officials on Monday to spare items they argued are critical to their businesses and consumer safety.

It was the first of seven days of hearings at the United States International Trade Commission on proposed tariffs on a broad list of products, which US executives say they have little choice but to buy from China.

Over 300 witnesses have signed up to voice their concerns about US President Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on another $300 billion in Chinese products, with levies of up to 25 percent, on top of the $250 billion worth already targeted.