Donald Trump’s pick as US trade representative has vowed to find new ways to crack down on unfair trade practices by China, suggesting that the World Trade Organisation is ill-equipped to deal with Beijing’s industrial policy.
Addressing a Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Robert Lighthizer said Mr Trump, who railed against China throughout last year’s presidential campaign, remained committed to getting tough with Beijing and using a “multi-faceted approach” to crack down on trade abuses.
“I believe [Mr Trump] is going to change the paradigm on China and, if you look at our problems, China is right up there,” Mr Lighthizer told senators.