It is impossible for us to have a conversation of any real depth about the United States’ trade agenda without China being front and center. From our home base in Washington State, that focus becomes even more immediate.

Not only is China our largest trading partner, but Washington State exports to China alone grew 535  percent from 2004 to 2013, while exports to the rest of the world grew just 155 percent. This means that having a policy framework and regulatory system that creates a level playing field is critical. Business leaders and policymakers need to collaborate to establish shared priorities and an agenda for action.

Last week, more than 150 members of Seattle business community were afforded a rare opportunity to gain a firsthand perspective on our trade agenda with China in an off-the-record conversation with Claire Reade, assistant US trade representative for China. Ms. Reade addressed our current trade relationship with China and shared her expectations for the future at the Washington Council on International Trade Summer Luncheon.

Nyhus was proud to be one of the event’s premier sponsors. President and CEO Roger Nyhus introduced the program, and Marc Berger, head of our newly-launched China Practice, interviewed Ms. Reade in a fireside chat format. She provided insight into the factors that impact trade negotiations with her Chinese counterparts and answered questions from the audience about how best to increase our state’s trade competitiveness with the People’s Republic. Port of Seattle Commissioner Courtney Gregoire provided comments after Ms. Reade’s presentation.

The takeaways from the discussion were clear. Enhanced engagement, cooperation and communication will be the foundation for a positive trade relationship in the future. And events like this one provide an important forum for our local leaders to connect with national experts to discuss how to move our state’s trade and economic agenda forward.

Did you attend the Washington Council on International Trade Summer Luncheon? Share your thoughts on the conversation below.