HONG KONG

U.S. Renewal of China’s MFN Supported: The American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong has given its support for unconditional U.S. renewal of China’s Most Favored Nation trading status. In a statement, AmCham Chairman Gareth C. C. Chang said it would be a mistake for the United States to link Hong Kong’s domestic issues with China’s MFN renewal. The current dispute over the political development of the territory is a matter for Britain, China and the people of Hong Kong, he said. Hong Kong Gov. Chris Patten has also called for the United States to renew China’s MFN status unconditionally. U.S. President-elect Clinton has indicated he will seek some conditions on China’s renewal of MFN, which offers benefits such as low tariffs.