There are certain restrictions on Chinese imports to the United States.
Most countries restrict imports from and exports to other countries, based on their different trade policies. These restrictions are guided by different rationales and change over time. The United States, although a proponent of free trade, restricts some imports from China. Trade policy is dynamic, though, and the list of restricted exports and imports changes as considerations change.
Cultural Considerations
Some Chinese imports are banned due to cultural considerations. In January 2009, one of the last acts of the Bush administration was to enter into an agreement with the Chinese government to restrict imports of Chinese art and cultural artifacts into the United States. This restriction is geared to cutting down on the illegal trading activity in these cultural treasures, an activity that has generated much controversy. The restriction applies to Chinese artifacts from the Paleolithic period through the Tang Period, ranging from 75,000 BC through AD 907. It also covers monumental sculpture and wall art that is at least 250 years old. Other items on the restricted list extend to furniture, textiles, ceramics, weapons, tools, coins and jewellery.
Health Considerations
U.S. restrictions on Chinese imports are also prompted by health considerations. In 2007, the U.S. government placed import alerts on some food ingredients imported from China. These ingredients are used in everyday food items ranging from noodles to breakfast food. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration expressed concern about China's oversight of its manufacturing processes. The FDA also reported that cats and dogs had died after eating contaminated food.
Other Considerations
Restrictions on imports and exports are also tied to considerations such as political maneuvering and changes in the balance of power. There is also an element of quid pro quo, with one country doing something in return for a favor from its trading partner. For instance, the U.S. government received something in return for the 2009 U.S. restrictions on the import of Chinese artifacts. As a consideration for the U.S. restrictions, the Chinese government agreed to curtail illicit trade in artifacts within its own borders. As well, the Chinese agreed to cooperate more with American museums. This will result in more cultural exchanges between the two countries, facilitate more exhibitions in the United States and long-term loans of archaeological material from China.
