U.S. Chamber Calls on Congress to Pass U.S.-China Competitiveness Agenda

U.S. Chamber Calls on Congress to Pass U.S.-China Competitiveness Agenda
"Protectionism is not the answer," Waterman Says

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today called on Congress to pass the four pieces of legislation that encompass the U.S.-China Competitiveness Agenda to help American businesses and workers compete in this growing market.

"China is one of the few economies in the world that is continuing to grow, and increasing exports to that market is critical to restoring growth and creating jobs at home," said Jeremie Waterman, senior director for Greater China at the U.S. Chamber. "Protectionism is not the answer. We have to find ways to enhance our own competitiveness and constructively address challenges in our commercial relationships with China and other trading partners."

The package of bills were introduced last week by Representatives Rick Larsen (D-WA), Mark Kirk (R-IL), Steve Israel (D-NY) and Susan Davis (D-CA) to help provide a positive agenda for engagement with China. The agenda would increase resources for small and medium-sized American businesses exporting to the China market; create new cooperative energy ties between the U.S. and China; make more funds available for Chinese language teaching; and expand America's diplomatic presence in China.

"American companies—particularly small and medium-sized companies—need the same resources to compete in the China market that governments in Europe and Japan provide to their businesses," Waterman said. "The Chamber applauds the four Members for their efforts to help American firms capitalize on business opportunities with the world's fastest growing major economy."

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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