The Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) filed a complaint against Washington's increase of tariffs on its solar panels in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on Tuesday, asking for an investigation over the US action.

The US imposed 30% tariffs on imported solar panels in January, while at the same time, subsidising its own renewable energy products, including solar panels.

The MOFCOM said the move will hurt China's trade interests and the US side violated WTO regulations by its actions.