When operating properly, the World Trade Organization raises the standard of living around the globe, including in the United States, by creating transparent rules for conducting trade. The U.S. was a key author of these rules, which discipline unfair and distorting trade practices by reducing barriers to goods and services, protecting intellectual property, and challenging subsidies that distort trade. These rules have created new markets for American-made goods and services to drive our economy and create U.S. jobs.

Despite these admirable intentions and the clear benefits that we’ve seen from our leadership at the WTO, it has become abundantly clear that the WTO needs significant reform, especially to hold China accountable for its predatory trade practices and abuse. The White House, with the help of Congress, is leading the charge because reform of the WTO is needed.