US tech-transfer charge baseless

China made a clear commitment when it joined the World Trade Organization that it would not require additional technology transfer to approve inward foreign direct investment even though such technology transfer for FDI conforms to WTO rules.

At the national level, China does not approve inward foreign investment by attaching technology transfer as a condition. At the enterprise level, however, such technology transfers by foreign companies do take place, because it is normal for foreign enterprises operating in any country to engage in capital, resources, technology, management and brand cooperation and transaction. But it should not be misinterpreted as mandatory requirement of the Chinese government.

Besides, the restrictions set by the Chinese government on foreign ownership in some sectors have nothing to do with the alleged forced technology transfer. This is a common global practice, and the result of negotiations between China and other WTO members, including the US.