Biden Trade Chief Says US Working With Allies to Counter China

The US trade chief, Katherine Tai, has stated that the United States is collaborating with its allies to counter China’s economic practices. Tai, who was recently appointed as the US Trade Representative by President Joe Biden, has emphasized the need to ensure that trade policies promote environmental sustainability, workers’ rights, and public health. She also mentioned that the US should prioritize enforcing existing trade agreements before considering new ones.

Tai’s remarks came during her first public speech as the US trade chief at an event hosted by the Center for American Progress. She highlighted the importance of working with allies to address shared challenges, including China’s state-led economic model, which has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency and for distorting global markets.

Tai also stated that the US is committed to engaging with China to resolve trade issues, but emphasized that any engagement must be based on reciprocity and fairness. She noted that the Biden administration is still reviewing the trade deal signed between the US and China in January 2020, and that any decision on the deal would be based on its effectiveness in addressing US concerns.

In addition to addressing China’s economic practices, Tai also stressed the need to ensure that trade policies promote social and environmental sustainability. She stated that the US should work to promote workers’ rights and that trade agreements should include strong environmental standards.

Overall, Tai’s remarks suggest that the Biden administration is taking a more collaborative approach to addressing China’s economic practices, while also prioritizing social and environmental sustainability in trade policies.