China Joins the World Trade Organization
2001-12-11
After almost fifteen years and some 900 pages of legal commitments, China became a member of the World Trade Organization on 11 December 2001. Ministers had approved the accession package in Doha the previous month, bringing one of the world’s largest economies into the organization. [4] [1]
As part of its accession, China agreed to lower tariffs, expand trading rights, and open parts of its services market to foreign businesses. Some changes began immediately; others would be phased in. The commitments covered matters as specific as agricultural subsidies, access to banking services, and the right of firms to import goods without going through designated intermediaries. [2]
The United States had helped clear the way. In October 2000, Bill Clinton signed legislation establishing a path to permanent normal trade relations with China. His administration argued that wider commerce would support both economic reform and greater openness. [3] [2]
Related Diplomats
Sources
- WTO ministers approve China’s accession
Approval and length of negotiations
- WTO concludes negotiations on China’s entry
Trading rights, tariffs, and services commitments
- White House fact sheet on permanent normal trade relations
Legislation and administration’s expectations
- China and the WTO — member record
Membership date
- Chinese Ambassadors to the United States of America
Related Reading
Cite This Article
China Joins the World Trade Organization. Chanceries Diplopedia. Record 828acc892fa5292c4100. https://chanceries.org/research/history/2001-wto-3dd3038c05/