February 13,2008

Baucus hails WTO Decision On Auto Parts

Finance Chairman Stresses Need For Vigorous Trade Enforcement

Washington, DC – Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont) today
welcomed a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute panel’s initial finding that Chinese auto parts import policies violate WTO rules. The panel found that the Chinese policies discriminate against imported auto parts – from the U.S., for instance – and unfairly favor Chinese auto parts suppliers.

“Vigorous enforcement is the linchpin of our trading system. When we enforce
WTO rules, markets open and our workers prosper,” Baucus said. “This decision is
a victory for open markets and American workers.”

The auto parts dispute was brought to the WTO by the United States, the European
Communities, and Canada in 2006. The three parties contended that China’s taxes on
imported auto parts discourage automobile manufacturers in China from using imported
auto parts in the assembly of vehicles. These regulations discriminate against imported
auto parts in favor of Chinese-manufactured parts. A final panel decision is expected in
March, after which China may appeal or comply with the decision.

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