There are many factors to consider when opening the United States doors to trade with China. In the past, Unites States and Chinese relations have been separated by differences in culture and animosity between the two countries. However, now Chinas participation in the World Trade Organization raises even more questions, such as the benefits of trade, the compromising of human rights, and the question of security. Trading with China can provide both benefits and barriers for smaller and medium sized companies, and for the high-tech industries as well. For example, Boeing purchases their supplies from more than 28,000 suppliers in the United States and these suppliers employ almost 200,000 workers (CNN).
China is one of the top buyers of Boeing products, and by increasing trade with China we increase the job market in the United States.
Another benefit of Chinas entry into the World Trade Organization is that it is a good way to increase communication between the two countries. We will be able to gain better knowledge of the culture in which Chinese companies operate and the benefit will work vice-versa. Trade also increases the job market for the telecommunications industry. American companies will be able import technological products anywhere in the country without having to gain government authorization from China (CNN).
By trading with China we increase our benefits in the foreign market. One disadvantage of trade with China is that while it does increase benefits over time, there is no short-term advantage.
The Essay on US-China Trade History 1980-Present
... them to buy more for less. As a result, United States trade with China has benefitted both economies throughout the course of their trading history. ... export market. U. S. -China trade in the past 30 years has dramatically increased ever since. U. S. -China trade in 1981 rose from $5 ...
For example, China is not likely to change any of its practices overnight. It is a gradual process because there is still a lot of risk involved. However, once the deal is finalized both countries will benefit. Another issue of concern is the practice of human rights and unethical practices by Chinese companies. Many products exported from China are made in factories and sweatshops that violate human right laws. By opening trade with China we are also compromising our values for a better economy. Also, many US citizens have a problem with the Chinese culture.
For example, many people do not agree with the restrictions put on the number of children women are allowed to have. The limit for a Chinese family is one child. Many human rights activists are opposed to trade because they do not want to associate with a country that treats the people unethically. On the other hand, China and the United States have agreed to maintain the US policy of anti-dumping. In one case we are losing a battle over beliefs, while in another situation we have changed a countrys viewpoint on an environmental issue. Security is also an issue of consideration in trade. There is a lot of risk involved in opening US markets in China and we do not want to compromise safety. For example, all companies are subject to review and if a company is found in violation, they will have to change their practice. China has also agreed to abort practices that may cost Americans jobs.
For example, China no longer requires U.S. manufacturers to use Chinese parts for products sold in China and the U.S. is allowed full use of American trade laws, such as the block of imported goods made with prison labor. By following a general means of security it will be easier to settle disputes among companies because we will all be following the same regulations. Trading with China will help the United States to increase its profit in foreign markets. While there are many benefits and barriers to be considered, such as trade, human rights, and security, overall progress is seen by both countries.
