FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2000
 
Contact: Josh Freed
(202) 225-4431

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced today her support for permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) with China. The measure is expected to come before the U.S. House of Representatives next week. The proposal grants normal trade relations between the U.S. and China and clears the way for American businesses to receive the full benefits of open trade when China joins the World Trade Organization (WTO) later this year.

"After studying all the issues in depth, I have come to the conclusion that opening China’s markets is good for the people of Colorado, good for our economy, good for our strategic national interests, and good for the Chinese people," said Rep. DeGette. “I will support PNTR and I will continue my efforts to ensure that China upholds fundamental human rights, protects the environment, and brings freedom and equality to its people.”

According to data collected by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Colorado’s exports of manufactured goods and agricultural products to China totaled more than $167 million in 1998, an increase of more than 1000% since 1993.

Speaking with sponsors of parallel legislation that would address human rights concerns, Rep. DeGette said, “Congress must continue to monitor China’s progress on human rights. I am very supportive of bipartisan companion legislation sponsored by Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) and Rep. Doug Bereuter (R-NE) that establishes a commission to review Chinese policies and compliance on an annual basis, in addition to providing protection against a surge in imports.”

The vote represents a historic moment in U.S.-China relations. In applying for membership in the WTO, China has expressed its intent to accept uniform trade laws and remove tariffs and other trade barriers. Without passage of PNTR, U.S. exporters would be ineligible to receive lower tariffs because U.S. trade relations would be considered “conditional.” This would put U.S. exporters at a unique disadvantage.

“China is well on its way to joining the WTO whether Congress votes for PNTR or not. The question is whether we will allow our exporters to benefit from the lowered tariffs and the elimination of trade barriers that other nations will receive,” Rep. DeGette said.
 
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