January 2014 Trade Bulletin

Highlights of this month’s edition:

• Bilateral trade: U.S. exports to China set record; trade deficit on pace for new annual high but imbalances reduced; manufactures and ATP exports perform well
• Bilateral policy issues: Tensions flare in Northeast Asia; Baucus to become next U.S. ambassador to China; Chinese companies top CFIUS list; Volcker rule may harm operations of Chinese banks and funds in the United States
• JCCT special: China makes new commitments on pharmaceuticals patents, beef access, trade secrets, and procurement
• Sector spotlight: Natural gas gaining prominence in China’s energy mix, energy imports, and negotiations with US; potential for imports from US
• China’s economy: 2013 GDP growth forecasts see at least 7.5 percent; growth achieved despite weak output, sales, and exports; another credit crunch; incipient financial reform