WASHINGTON - Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore, today pressed European Union Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmstrom for cooperation on strong enforcement with respect to China and outlined U.S. priorities in negotiations for the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, a trade agreement with the European Union.
“Granting China market economy status this year would not reflect current economic reality and is the wrong choice for the millions of American and European workers and their families who are facing unfair trade from China. It is critical that the United States and Europe continue to stand together for strong trade enforcement." Wyden said about the discussion.
With regard to TTIP negotiations, Wyden stated “the United States can’t conclude TTIP without modern rules on digital trade, that among other things ensure data can flow across borders and protect against forced localization of servers. TTIP must also include fully enforceable labor and environmental protections - when it comes to enforcement, labor and environment cannot take a back seat. Finally, our farmers and other agricultural producers need to have a fair chance to compete in Europe - where they face not only tariffs but other significant barriers."
