Gorton Against Special Trade Status For China

Despite Washington state’s interest in commerce with China, U.S. Sen. Slade Gorton says he will likely oppose renewing that country’s most-favored-nation trade status.

Gorton, R-Wash., on Friday told editors at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer that he had seen no evidence China was lowering barriers that contribute to a growing trade deficit with the United States.

He also said it didn’t seem that China was ending what he called widespread piracy of U.S. intellectual property.

If China were to lose most-favored-nation status in a congressional vote later this year, it would mean duties on Chinese imports would double or triple. Also, it probably would trigger retaliation by Beijing against such U.S. goods as aircraft and software.

Asked whether he had discussed his position with The Boeing Co., which considers China one of its most promising export markets, Gorton said: “Boeing and I just agree to disagree on the subject.”

Last year, Gorton voted for the annual renewal of China’s status as a most-favored-nation trading partner because of pressure from tradedependent businesses here.

His current position would put him at odds with most others in the state’s 11-member congressional delegation and with exporters.

U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., said last week that she plans to seek a multiyear or permanent MFN status for China.

While Gorton has opposed China’s record on human rights, he said other concerns were his reasons for considering withholding support. Gorton expects China to make a last-minute pledge to end theft of U.S. software and compact discs, but said he would not be persuaded.

A Microsoft spokeswoman, Erin Brewer, said the company is concerned about intellectual property-rights piracy but supports expanded trade with China.

China buys jets, but has blocked Northwest wheat imports and virtually banned apples, cherries and other fruit, Gorton said.