The survey also highlights the profitability of US companies in China and the importance of bilateral ties to the American economy. "Despite recent public differences on specific issues, US and China relations remain strong," said AmCham-China President Christian Murck. "Both the US and Chinese economies benefit greatly from the relationship."
While much of the news is good, there are also some negative trends. "Despite general profitability, there are some areas of concern about the regulatory environment," said Mr. Murck. "The lack of consistent application of the law is a growing problem, particularly as US companies expand across China." Mr. Murck pointed out that "inconsistent regulatory interpretation" now ranks as the number one business challenge for US companies in China for the first time in the survey's history. There is also rising concern among high tech and IT companies that in an attempt to encourage innovation China may discriminate against foreign-invested enterprises and imports.
Nevertheless, the survey's results show an overall positive economic environment. "It is important that disagreements and areas of concern do not obscure the overall benefits of strong US-China economic ties," Mr. Murck said. "China is good for the US economy and American jobs." AmCham-China looks forward to playing a constructive role in promoting increased bilateral dialogue between two of the world's most important economies.
