Missouri has been awarded $24 billion in damages from China for allegedly hoarding PPE and misleading information during COVID-19. The court ruling highlighted significant economic losses for the state due to these actions. While the ruling sets a precedent, enforcing the judgment poses challenges as China has not responded.

A Missouri court has ordered China to pay $24 billion for allegedly covering up information regarding COVID-19 and hoarding personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic. The lawsuit, initiated in 2020, accused the Chinese Communist Party and several Chinese entities of obstructing the production and export of essential medical gear. The court’s decision reflects the significant impact of China’s actions on the availability and cost of PPE in the United States.

According to the lawsuit, China systematically took control over American factories producing PPE, stockpiling protective gear and preventing its distribution to the United States and other nations at critical moments. Judge Stephen Limbaugh, Jr. acknowledged the substantial evidence provided by Missouri, indicating that China’s actions were coupled with misleading information about COVID-19’s transmissibility.

The economic repercussions on Missouri were considerable; the state asserted that it incurred over $122 million in additional expenses for PPE due to the shortages and faced an estimated loss of over $8 billion in tax revenues as a result of pandemic-related disruptions. Judge Limbaugh supported the state’s claims, stating that China violated both state and federal anti-monopoly laws by hoarding PPE.

Following the ruling, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey emphasized the state’s commitment to recovering the $24 billion and declared intentions to seize Chinese-owned assets if necessary. He highlighted that despite China’s absence in court, Missouri would ensure accountability for the damaging economic effects suffered.

Former Attorney General Eric Schmitt initially filed the lawsuit amid severe pressures on global supply chains caused by the pandemic. As Missouri’s case gains attention, it may set a precedent for other states considering similar legal action against foreign entities related to pandemic accountability and economic losses.

However, the task of enforcing the $24 billion judgment poses significant challenges, as China has not reacted to the ruling. Legal experts caution that the process of seizing assets owned by foreign nations could encounter complex diplomatic obstacles. Nevertheless, Missouri officials remain committed to pursuing all available options to secure the judgment and hold China accountable for its alleged actions during the crisis.

In summary, a Missouri court has ruled in favor of the state, ordering China to pay $24 billion due to alleged actions that led to severe PPE shortages and economic losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. While this ruling sets a crucial precedent, the challenges of enforcing such judgments against a foreign entity remain significant, underscoring the complexities in navigating international legal disputes following the pandemic.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com

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