U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before the US Senate Finance Committee last week (March 23, 2023), and the discussion turned contentious. The Hagstrom Report says both Democrats and Republicans had a lot to say about the administration’s agricultural trade policies.
Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said he has real concerns that USTR isn’t doing enough to break down the barriers our exporters face. “I’ll draw a line here – the U.S. cannot conclude agreements with Japan, Indonesia, or the EU that leave issues facing our exports unaddressed,” Wyden said.
In other remarks, Tai said she’s open to trade talks with China. “While we keep the door open to conversations with China, including on its Phase 1 agreement commitments,” she said during prepared remarks, “we must also defend our values and economic interests from the negative impacts of China’s unfair economic practices.” Her remarks didn’t indicate specific plans for discussions with China’s new economic team.
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