Latest round of tariffs, trade talks illustrate importance of American, Chinese positions, trade law expert says

LAWRENCE — The Trump administration has announced plans to raise tariffs on an additional $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, and China is sending a delegation to Washington to save talks about ending a trade war between the two nations. Negotiations to resolve trade disputes nearly have come undone following the announcement that tariffs on a wide range of goods would rise from 10 to 25 percent.

Talks between Chinese and American delegations are set to continue today in Washington. The United States accuses China of reneging on its commitments made in previous negotiations. Raj Bhala, Brenneisen Distinguished Professor at the University of Kansas School of Law, is available to discuss the developments with media. An international trade law expert, Bhala can discuss the tariffs and countertariffs, the ongoing trade war and its implications, and U.S.-China trade relations across economic, political and military issues.

“The most recent setback in the trade negotiations means it is vital to appreciate not only the American perspective, but also to understand China’s position — why it is doing what it is doing in these negotiations, and what its red-line limitations are,” Bhala said.

Bhala has a global reputation in the scholarship of international trade law. He lectures around the world and is the author of the acclaimed four-volume “International Trade Law: An Interdisciplinary, Non-Western Textbook,” now in its fifth edition, two-volume treatise “Modern GATT Law” and “TPP Objectively: Law, Economics and National Security of History’s Largest, Longest Free Trade Agreement.” He practiced international banking law at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York before entering academia and currently serves as senior adviser to Dentons in Kansas City. Bhala has worked in more than 25 countries, including China, Australia, England, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore and throughout India.

To schedule an interview, contact Mike Krings at 785-864-8860 or mkrings@ku.edu.