Brussels, 07/06/2010 (Agence Europe) - The examination of China's trade policy at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) from 31 May to 2 June provided an opportunity for the EU to congratulate China for its crucial role in world trade and its rapid economic recovery, while pointing out that it could have a positive influence on other economies if it used its economic recovery measures to stimulate domestic demand and meet the promises it has made to the WTO to open up its economy. The EU's head of delegation at the WTO in Geneva, John Clarke, said the EU had also called on China to meet its responsibilities in the global trading system under the Doha Round, to comply with WTO rules and respect its accession pledges to issues like non -discrimination. The EU informed China of European concerns about a slow-down in the reform process and transparency in China. Addressing delegations at the WTO, Clarke highlighted the following issues: the continued problem of non-tariff obstacles to trade in China like the difficult Chinese standardisation system which does not match international standards; the continued use of export barriers and investment restrictions placed on foreign companies. The EU urges China to ensure that its new innovation policy guarantees fair competition and removes restrictions on access to Chinese markets (see EUROPE 10145); the need for greater effort to ensure intellectual property rights are implemented, including customs controls and more effective sentencing (although some progress has been made in this area); continued and unjustified interference in the economy by the Chinese state, particularly in manufacturing and the car industry; and the need for greater transparency in policy and public consultations with domestic and foreign stakeholders. (E.H./transl.fl)