How has China achieved the status of a highperforming Asian economy? Why has China's normal trade relation status been a source of controversy in the United States? What are the likely effects of China's entry into the WTO?

The journey of China to becoming a high-performing Asian economy has been remarkable and can be attributed to a combination of several strategic moves.

The country's adoption of economic reforms in the late 1970s paved the way for transition from a centrally planned to a market-based economy. These reforms included opening up to foreign trade and investment, which unleashed a wave of export-led growth. With exports being a major driver of its economy, China focused on manufacturing and selling goods globally at competitive prices.

In addition to trade, China's emphasis on building massive infrastructure facilitated domestic business operations and international trade logistics. Investments in research and development have been substantial, propelling the country to the forefront of technological advancements. This not only improved efficiency but also spawned high-tech industries.

Key industries, such as electronics and automotive, benefitted from government policies, and the educational sector was revamped to improve the quality of the workforce. These actions collectively transformed China into an economic powerhouse, contributing to high GDP growth rates and significant poverty reduction.

China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001 marked a monumental shift in international trade. This strategic step was expected to have multiple effects on global trade dynamics and China’s own economic policies.

By joining the WTO, China agreed to abide by international rules governing trade and to lower trade barriers, which led to increased market access for goods and services for both China and its trade partners. This integration into the global economy has bolstered the country's exports further while providing an influx of foreign investments.

The entry into the WTO also necessitated China to undergo economic reforms to align with international standards, including implementing intellectual property rights and reducing state intervention in the economy. These changes often increased competition within Chinese markets, driving efficiency and innovation.

Moreover, the WTO membership has proved beneficial for other WTO members, as it opened up China’s vast market for exports from around the world. This move, although not without criticism, has been a key factor in global economic growth and has firmly established China as a central player in international trade.

Normal Trade Relation (NTR) status, once known as Most Favored Nation status, plays a crucial role in the trade relationship between countries, including the bond between China and the United States.

The United States grants NTR status to its trade partners as a commitment to offer non-discriminatory tariff rates on imports. When the U.S. established NTR status with China, it agreed to treat China equally among its trading partners regarding tariffs. However, this status has been a topic of controversy in the United States, raising concerns across several areas.

There have been allegations of unfair trade practices by China, such as dumping and inappropriate subsidies, that some argue can undermine local businesses in the U.S. Moreover, issues around human rights, labor standards, and geopolitical sovereignty contribute to the contention surrounding China's NTR status.

The controversy is fueled by the debate on balancing economic interests with ethical and political principles. While NTR status has helped facilitate economic growth through trade, the associated complexities continue to affect Sino-American relations profoundly.