Absence of Chinese Participation in Nairobi/ITA Finalization Would Signal Ineptitude as Global Trade Agreement Partner, says Consumer Technology Association
The following statement is attributed to Sage Chandler, vice president, international trade, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)™ - formerly the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® - and former United States Trade Representative negotiator regarding concerns about the pending finalization of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) expansion:
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"While the finalization of this historic ITA agreement is within immediate reach, there are new concerns that China's inadequate preparation and cooperation will derail the process. China's mission in Geneva did not participate in the final ambassadors meeting and is now signaling that the Chinese trade minister may not even attend the Nairobi Ministerial-clear signs Beijing isn't prepared to engage in good faith with the rest of the global economy.
"Beijing's failure to share its necessary ITA submission and its continued reservations about several participants remain the only obstacles preventing global industry from this $1 trillion deal. China would easily be one of the biggest beneficiaries - if not the largest - of an expanded ITA, which makes the country's current posturing all the more perplexing.
"The institution of the World Trade Organization stands ready to demonstrate it can deliver a 'plural-lateral' deal-an accomplishment that has not been seen in two decades. If this ITA agreement is not finalized next week, Beijing will send a clear signal to the world that China is not ready for 'prime time' trade agreements."
About Consumer Technology Association:
Consumer Technology Association (CTA)TM, formerly the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®, is the trade association representing the $285 billion U.S. consumer technology industry. More than 2,200 companies - 80 percent are small businesses and startups; others are among the world's best known brands - enjoy the benefits of CTA membership including policy advocacy, market research, technical education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CTA also owns and produces CES® - the world's gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technology. Profits from CES are reinvested into CTA's industry services.