Source: Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE, 2/16/15

Citing China’s export subsidy program as a threat to U.S. businesses – including poultry operations on the West Coast – U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman is challenging the program through the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Froman announced that the United States is pursuing dispute settlement consultation with the Chinese government over its “Common Service Platform,” which covers subsidies across seven economic sectors in more than 150 industrial clusters across China. The subsidy program provides funding to Chinese businesses and industries in what U.S. officials believe is unfair and harmful to American workers and businesses.

For example, the subsidies ultimately limit market access for exported U.S. goods in favor of Chinese companies in textiles, medical devices, and agriculture, among others, Froman’s agency noted in a news release.

“The Chinese market represents the third largest trading partner for California agriculture at roughly $1.4 billion,” noted U.S. Rep. Jim Costa (D-Calif.) “The export subsidies sponsored by the Chinese government for fruits, vegetables, and poultry will have a significant effect on California’s trade. That is why this challenge brought by the U.S. Trade Representative is so important.”

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