In Ohio today, President Obama will announce a World Trade Organization (WTO) suit against China to address unfairly imposed duties on U.S. auto exports. The Administration will argue that these duties violate international trade rules.
Commented Scott Paul, Executive Director of the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM):
"American workers and manufacturers strongly support President Obama’s decision to launch a trade enforcement action against China’s unfair auto tariffs. The deck in China is stacked against American automakers and workers, and this case will help to level the playing field.
"Less than one percent of the estimated 18 million vehicles sold in China last year were made in America, despite the fact that the Detroit Three brands are growing more popular every day.
"This Administration has a stellar record on enforcing America’s trade laws and has not hesitated to take action to defend American workers—today’s announcement is further proof of that. But, there is more work to do.
"Chinese auto parts are surging into America, aided by Chinese government subsidies. Unless strong steps are taken now to also defend American auto parts jobs, the efforts of the auto companies, unions, and the Administration to revitalize the American auto sector could be washed away in a matter of a few years."