The Peopleu27s Republic of China and its Pursuit of Membership into the World Trade Organization

摘要

China became a member of the World Trade Organization on December 11, 2001 despite serious setbacks and obstacles in its path. China joined the World Trade Organization out of two considerations: one was economic and the other was cultural. Economically, WTO membership was and continues to be important for Chinau27s modernization programs. Foreign investment dollars bring in the much-needed financial help and the advanced technology needed in order to continue modernizing. Culturally, WTO membership gives China a voice in the international community and puts it on an equal footing with the industrialized nations of the world. Chinau27s WTO membership will bring about both positive and negative consequences in the future. The increase in trade and technology will certainly increase the standard of living for Chinese citizens. However, there will also be increased unemployment and environmental damage.