U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, shown in Beijing on Thursday for trade talks with China, has favored tough, broad-based approach and the use of tariffs as leverage. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, shown in Beijing on Thursday for trade talks with China, has favored tough, broad-based approach and the use of tariffs as leverage. A Chinese government spokesman said ahead of the U.S. team’s arrival that Beijing is prepared should a protracted trade fight ensue. Chinese officials respond that U.S. companies willingly enter into contracts with Chinese firms and deny they are giving domestic firms an unfair advantage. Over the past few months, the Trump administration has tightened pressure on Beijing on trade, levying tariffs on Chinese solar panels, steel and aluminum.

Source: Wall Street Journal May 03, 2018 14:26 UTC