Tim Brightbill Discusses International Trade Developments to Watch in 2016

January 5, 2016

Timothy C. Brightbill, a partner in Wiley Rein’s International Trade Practice, was quoted in a Law360 article published December 24 about what the international trade bar can expect in the coming year.

Among the issues that are pending in 2016 is the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which needs to pass up or down votes in both chambers of Congress. Sens. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) have both expressed skepticism of the deal and present major roadblocks to its passage.

“They need to resolve their issues with Senator Hatch and Senator McConnell,” Mr. Brightbill said.” If they can’t do that, then there’s not even going to be a vote.”

Mr. Brightbill also weighed in on a key provision expiring this year that treats China as a nonmarket economy. Mr. Brightbill said that China would still be classified as a nonmarket economy until the U.S. Department of Commerce deems otherwise.

“Under U.S. law, China will remain a nonmarket economy until the Commerce Department engages in a thorough analysis of the issue,” he said. “There are six factors they are required to consider by law and by any measure, China does not yet meet those six important tests for being a market economy.”

To read the entire article, click here.