Press Release

Gutierrez Trade Mission to China Will Focus on Expanding U.S. Export Opportunities

JCCT Chairman Gutierrez to Highlight Areas for Intensified Bilateral Trade Discussions

WASHINGTON—In an effort to expand U.S. export opportunities, Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez will lead a broad delegation of 25 U.S. businesses to China November 13-16, and will discuss with senior Chinese officials ways to resolve key bilateral trade issues. Gutierrez, who leads the Joint Committee on Commerce and Trade (JCCT), the major U.S.-Chinese bilateral trade forum, will highlight core areas for intensified discussions within the JCCT and will give remarks at a major Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) event hosted by the United States in Beijing.

"U.S. exports to China are already at record levels, but we're not satisfied--there's room to grow. China is a key export market for American businesses and workers, and we have a great group of American business leaders who are excited about expanding their exports," said Gutierrez. "I will be meeting with senior Chinese officials to continue consultations on how we can strip away impediments to U.S. exports. Our business delegation will be able to hold key meetings with important Chinese government and business contacts."

"While China is more open than before, much progress must still be made to provide fair access to American exporters and businesses. China is a major beneficiary of the international economic system, and with protectionism rising around the world, China must be a 'responsible stakeholder' and work with the United States to continue to improve market access, intellectual property rights and business transparency," added Gutierrez.

Gutierrez and the delegation will visit Beijing November 13-14, and travel to Shanghai for meetings November 15-16. The business delegation will continue with specific meetings on November 17 in Shanghai.