Beneficial in theory, so-called free trade agreements far too often have been detrimental to the United States economy and the manufacturing sector that forms its central pillar.

Unfortunately, the United States has entered into several free trade agreements that do not sufficiently protect and support our manufacturing industries and the millions of American workers they employ.

As the United States' $12 trillion-per-year economy becomes increasingly integrated with China's 1.3 billion-person economy . . . trade and investment will continue to grow, creating jobs and increasing prosperity in both the United States and China.

The establishment of free trade agreements can be a critical and progressive step towards greater economic integration, and continues to become more valuable in an increasingly global world.

The trade between Asia and the United States is very, very strong.

This is very necessary to reduce China's trade surplus with the United States and other developed countries.