A delegation of AmCham China members led by Chairman James Zimmerman on May 24 visited Zhang Xiangchen, Deputy China International Trade Representative at the Ministry of Commerce, to deliver this year’s White Paper.
Zimmerman presented the key issues outlined in the White Paper – namely fairness and transparency, a dynamic and open investment environment, and promoting open innovation – and takeaways from the chamber’s Washington DC Outreach in April. Zhang gave a historical perspective on the key issues in the White Paper and answered questions raised by delegates on several bilateral economic topics, such as progress of the US-China Bilateral Investment Treaty, the Strategic and Economic Dialogue, and licensing, and said that current US-China business relations have to evolve through mutual adaptation.
Zhang also emphasized his hope that the American business community will encourage the US government to review and comply with Article 15 of the WTO agreement concerning China’s market economy status, which otherwise could have a very negative impact on US-China trade relations.
Zimmerman thanked his host for participating in the AmCham China 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner as a keynote speaker, for which Zhang was presented a photo, as well as his strong support for US-China relations.
The AmCham China delegation covered a wide range of industries, including legal services, insurance, high-tech, machinery, automotive, and food and beverage. Ministry officials from the American and Oceanian Department and Foreign Investment Department also participated.