China's decision to initiate an anti-dumping investigation on imported brandy originating from the European Union is in accordance with the rules of the World Trade Organization and relevant Chinese laws and regulations, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

The move comes as a result of the application made by Chinese domestic industries which expressed concerns about unfair competition and the potential harm caused by imported brandy from the EU, said Shu Jueting, spokeswoman with the ministry, at a news conference.

After scrutinizing the materials and evidence submitted by the applicants in line with the law, the ministry ruled that the application meets the conditions for filing an anti-dumping case and decided to initiate an investigation, Shu said.

The ministry will follow the prescribed legal procedures and ensure that the rights and interests of all parties involved are protected, Shu added.