China's Entry Into WTO Improves

Autoparts Report, June 18, 2001

China's admission to the World Trade Organization appears to be on an accelerated track after it resolved its differences with the U.S. on the terms of Beijing's entry. WTO chief Mike Moore urged remaining major powers to work fast to ensure that Beijing can be accepted by the end of this year.

Moore said he wants a decision on China's membership to be made at a Ministerial Conference in Doha, Qatar, this November. However, China still has to wrap up talks with the European Union, which wants stronger pledges on access for European firms to the Chinese insurance market. EU leaders are also seeking clarification on trading rights that companies from their 15 member states will have within China. Mexico has not finalized its talks with China on WTO entry, but has said it would not block Beijing's admission.