TIA recently sent a letter to members of Congress asking for support in extending Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) to China. In its letter, TIA noted that the bilateral market access agreement announced between the United States and China on November 15, 1999, is a strong package for U.S. industry. TIA stressed that U.S. telecommunications suppliers stand to gain much from China's accession to the World Trade Organization, including lower tariffs, the right to distribute and import goods without the mandated intervention of Chinese entities, and increased foreign participation in China's telecommunications services sector. Through the third quarter of 1999, U.S. telecommunications equipment exports to mainland China totaled almost $428 billion, which is a 22 percent decrease from the prior year's period. TIA President Matthew J. Flanigan stated, "With export numbers currently decreasing, it is imperative that U.S. telecom suppliers gain unhindered access to the Chinese market, which they could do if Congress grants China PNTR." "Not only will equipment manufacturers like our members benefit from extending to China permanent NTR, but the average American will also benefit from increased jobs in the high-tech sector, continued growth of our economy, and more stable, balanced relations with the world's most populous nation," Flanigan concluded. For more information, please contact Christine Keck at (202) 383-1482 or ckeck@tia.eia.org. TIA Home | Industry Beat | TIA Press Releases | Subscribe | Past Issues Letter from the President | Inside Washington | TIA Around the Globe | Small Company Focus Trade Shows and Marketing Opportunities | Standards Update | Member Spotlight New TIA Members | Member News | Market Forecast | Calendar of Events | PulseOnline Home Contact Us: Rali Mileva rmileva@tia.eia.org or Melanie Phung mphung@tia.eia.org