US and Chinese trade negotiators have concluded the 23rd meeting of the US-China Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade (JCCT) in Washington, speaking of "meaningful progress" while citing no specific examples.

"We were able to make progress on several key issues, while reinforcing the inherent value of the products produced in the United States," said US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, reported American Shipper.

Said US Trade Representative Ron Kirk: "Today's meetings were important both as a capstone to our past efforts and to lay a foundation for progress going forward."

Negotiators discussed American intellectual property and innovation issues, with the US seeking agreement on removing regulatory obstacles impeding US exports and taking "meaningful steps" to deal with issues concerning China's Government Procurement Agreement accession.

The US and Chinese governments also signed agreements to enhance understanding and bilateral trade.