According to Washington Trade Daly The United Steelworks Union has recently filed a unfair trade practices petition with the office of the US Trade Representative. The letter maintains that several Chinese policies and practices are “illegal” and threatens the U.S. economy. In particular they maintain that the U.S. alternative and renewable energy sectors are being harmed. More specifically the letter alleges that China has used hundreds of billions of dollars in subsidies and other trade practices to help Chinese firms dominate the industry.
This is another chance to see how the Obama Administration handles pressure from organized labor, one of their core supports. In the past they bent to similar pressure by instituting tire subsidies. The Administration has until October 25th to decide whether or not they will accept this position and file formal complaints against China. Over the past few months the President has attempted to better define his position on trade and has started to take a more pro-trade stance. It will be interesting to see how Obama develops his trade policy, which as been very slow in coming. This is also the latest opportunity for Ron Kirk to make a name for himself and finally take some ownership of his office.
