Release Date: Feb 14, 2006Contact: 888-249-NEWS


Chamber Praises Administration's Approach to U.S.-China Trade Policy

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States Chamber of Commerce today praised the Bush administration's approach to U.S.-China trade policy that calls for tougher enforcement of trade laws and encourages Congress to work closely with the administration. The policy was outlined in a "top-to-bottom review" of the U.S.-China commercial relationship released today by U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman.

"The patience of American business with China is not limitless," said Chamber Vice President for East Asia Myron Brilliant. "China must deliver on past promises and address U.S. commercial concerns over its lax enforcement of intellectual property rights and breaches of WTO market access commitments. Dialogue remains the preferred approach to moving the U.S.-China trade agenda forward, but if China continues to falter in key areas, the Chamber will support the administration in all appropriate courses of action."

The U.S. Chamber continues to support the administration's engagement with the Chinese through dialogues, such as the upcoming Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade.

"This administration is serious about delivering meaningful and concrete results from China on behalf of American workers, farmers, and businesses," said Brilliant. "China's success in meeting its WTO and intellectual property obligations is in everyone's best interests."

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

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