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US vs. Europe at the WTO

Christian Science Monitor The United States had its biggest trade deficit ever last year - $347 billion. That sum was 41 percent worse than in 1998. The American border, clearly, is highly porous to imports. And though the US does have an armful of devices to discourage imports and promote exports, its tariffs are a bit lower on average than those of the European Union.

Singapore: US Needs Coherent Policy

By DEAN VISSER Associated Press Writer SINGAPORE (AP) - The United States needs to develop a more coherent policy on Asia despite the distractions of domestic politics, Singapore's deputy prime minister said Friday.

Canada Appeals WTO Ruling on Auto Tariffs

GENEVA, March 3 (Reuters) - Canada has appealed a WTO ruling which found its auto pact with the United States discriminatory, a World Trade Organisation (WTO) spokeswoman said on Friday.

China Raises Taiwan Stakes

By CHARLES HUTZLER Associated Press Writer BEIJING (AP) - China raises new threats to attack Taiwan. Taiwanese leaders warn intimidation will only worsen relations. The United States, threatening grave consequences if China attacks, moves an aircraft carrier off Japan.

Majority of U.S. Senators Back China Deal-Poll

By Adam Entous WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A majority of U.S. senators said they would support a breakthrough trade agreement with China despite concerns over Beijing's human rights record and threats to invade Taiwan.

White House Urges Renewal of U.S. WTO Membership

WASHINGTON, March 2 (Reuters) - The Clinton administration on Thursday urged lawmakers to reject legislation calling for the United States to withdraw from the World Trade Organization (WTO), saying it would put the U.S. economy at risk.

WTO Good Deal for U.S.

By ANNE GEARAN Associated Press Writer WASHINGTON (AP) - A Clinton administration report sent to Congress on Thursday concludes that after five years, the World Trade Organization has proved a good deal for the United States.

WTO Rulings Force Review

Australian Financial Review By Lenore Taylor and Brendan Pearson The Federal Government has been forced to rethink its case-by-case process to encourage major investments after recent tough World Trade Organisation rulings on illegal export subsidies.

Brazil Says U.S. Was "Intransigent" in Seattle

By Axel Bugge BRASILIA, March 2 (Reuters) - Latin America's largest country, Brazil, said on Thursday the United States showed "intransigence" at world trade talks in Seattle last year, and has yet to show real interest in relaunching negotiations.

Farmers Lukewarm to China Trade

By PHILIP BRASHER AP Farm Writer WASHINGTON (AP) - The Clinton administration is struggling to get farmers united behind a trade agreement with China, raising concerns among the pact's supporters about whether it will have enough congressional support.