The World Trade Organization's top arbitrators have upheld a ruling that China is illegally restricting the import of U.S. music, films and books.

Monday's ruling by the WTO's appellate body confirms the landmark decision in August that came down decisively against Beijing's policy of forcing American media producers to route their business through state-owned companies.

If China fails to bring its practices in line with international trade law, the U.S. can ask the WTO to authorize commercial sanctions against Chinese goods.

Also Monday, Washington pushed forward with a new case accusing China of manipulating the prices for key ingredients in steel and aluminum production.

The WTO set up a panel to rule in the dispute sometime next year.