U.S. Chamber Applauds House Vote for China Normal Trade

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States Chamber of Commerce today welcomed the overwhelmingly bipartisan House vote in support of normal trade relations with China as yet another sign that lawmakers recognize trade with China advances U.S. interests.

"House members today affirmed that trade with China equals more and better jobs for Americans, a healthier U.S. business climate and increased influence over China on human rights issues and the rule of law," said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president for government affairs. "The vote was a no-brainer. We are ready to move beyond these divisive debates."

The House voted to reject a resolution disapproving the extension of normal trade relations with China (H.J. Res. 50), sponsored by Rep. Dana Rohrabacher. The vote secures continued U.S.-China trade as China awaits entry into the World Trade Organization, expected later this year or early next year.

"Bringing China into a rules-based society of nations will create tremendous new opportunities for America's agriculture, manufacturing, services and high-tech sectors," said Josten. "At the same time, it will foster more economic freedom and adherence to international rules of commercial conduct."

Since China's opening in the late 1970s, U.S. trade and investment have been a major force behind positive change in China and served as a foundation for improvement in U.S.-China relations, according to the Chamber. In 2000, U.S. goods, services and agricultural exports to China totaled more than $18 billion and supported hundreds of thousands of high-paying American jobs.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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