CHINA CLAIMS NEW MARITIME RULES IN LINE WITH WTO

CHINA CLAIMS NEW MARITIME RULES IN LINE WITH WTO    Chinese government officials told a delegation of U.S. maritime officials in Beijing that its new international maritime transportation rules are in line with World Trade Organization principles of “openness, transparency and non-discrimination.”
   Chinese government officials also told the delegation during meetings March 19-21 that they have made “numerous reforms” to the country’s maritime regulations to induce “market-oriented development and further liberalization.”
   In December, China’s Ministry of Communications issued new regulations for U.S. and other non-Chinese maritime companies, such as carriers, shippers, freight forwarders and non-vessel-operating common carriers, operating in the country.
   The U.S. delegation found the Chinese government’s responses to its questions “helpful” in understanding the new regulations. The U.S. delegation, led by Maritime Administrator William G. Schubert, also “welcomed those changes China has made towards market-oriented principles in its maritime regulations” and “looked forward to seeing the explanations incorporated into implementing rules and other relevant rules reflecting market economy principles.”
   The Chinese delegation welcomed an invitation to visit Washington to learn about U.S. practice on maritime legislation and its implementation.
   The Chinese and U.S. government officials also said they expect to continue talks on their bilateral maritime relationship.