China Select Committee Rec Would Disadvantage U.S. Companies
U.S. needs a proactive trade agenda to compete with China
- By [ Blake Harden ]
- Washington, DC
- 12/11/2023
“Leading retailers support the Select Committee’s objective of positioning American businesses to compete fairly with China. While RILA is currently reviewing the Committee’s complete recommendations, we are concerned with any recommendation that could lead to increased tariffs on consumer products,” said RILA Vice President of International Trade Blake Harden.
“For over five years, retailers have borne the costs of Section 301 tariffs, which have been a largely ineffective trade policy for holding China accountable. Ample studies have shown that the costs associated with increased tariffs are paid by American importers and only harm U.S. businesses, workers, and consumers by contributing to increased prices and decreased accessibility for the goods Americans rely on for their everyday lives, everything from apparel to children’s toys.
“We are supportive of measures to address China’s unfair trade practices. But doubling down on a policy that has already proven ineffective by further raising tariffs on products from China will only harm U.S. businesses and invite retaliation from China. To truly accomplish supply chain diversification and resilience, we need a proactive trade agenda that promotes free markets, lowers tariff and non-tariff barriers, sets high standards, and facilitates alternatives to China – rather than punishing American companies, workers, and consumers.
“As lawmakers consider policies to address the challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and improve the ability of U.S. businesses to compete globally, we encourage them to explore a more strategic, targeted approach than this recommendation outlined by the Select Committee today.”
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Tags
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International Trade
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Public Policy
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Supporting Free Markets and Fostering Innovation
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China Trade Tariffs
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Keeping Supply Chains Open & Resilient
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Supply Chain
