The next president will be forced to deal with a number of important, and in many cases delicate problems, that may change the direction of international trade for the next century. Among these, is the acceptance of China into the World Trade Organization (WTO). The United States has taken a leading role in pushing for the admittance of China into the WTO, but there have been technical problems, preventing the deal from being closed. Of concern also, will be the demands of developing nations, who wish to reach a more equitable trading relationship with the industrialized countries. (Economist) It will be the responsibility of the next president to find working solutions to these dilemmas.

The two major party candidates this election cycle are Republican Governor George W. Bush of Texas and Democratic Vice President Al Gore. The two share similar positions within some aspects of foreign trade policy, but differ significantly on others.

III. International Trade Policy of Gov. George W. Bush

Vice President Gore argues that sanctions should be used against nations with unfair labor laws or industrial policies that do damage to the environment. He advocates working with the WTO to set standards for developing nations to follow, in order to participate in the international marketplace.

Gore was in favor of granting China permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) and has been a key player in pushing for their accession to the WTO. He believes that accepting China as a strategic trading partner enables the United States to politically and economically reform China, while reaping the rewards trading with China has to offer (Groombridge, Voter).

II. International Trade Policy of Vice President Al Gore

Vice President Gore is an advocate of free trade. His support for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which created an open market system between Canada, Mexico and the United States, was the key reason it was passed into law on January 1, 1994 (North American Free Trade Agreement). He believes that open markets spur technological innovation on a worldwide scale, and create tremendous growth and job opportunities domestically (Voter).

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Approximate Word count = 1343
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)