Katherine Tai Confirmed as the First Asian American U.S. Trade Negotiator

Taiwanese American attorney Katherine Tai was recently sworn in as the 19th United States Trade Representative. Tai, 47, became both the first Asian American and the first woman of color to take on this role on March 18, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Vice President Kamala Harris led Tai’s swearing-in. Tai’s many responsibilities include addressing China’s trade practices, carrying out trade deals and improving the States’ relationships with its allies, The Guardian reported. Tai is the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants. Before taking on the role of Trade Representative, Tai served in the Trade Representative's Office of General Counsel. She was also the chief Democratic trade counsel for the House Ways and Means Committee. According to the Washington Post, she is currently the only Asian American woman with a Cabinet-level position serving under President Biden.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer declared that Tai “will be an essential player in restoring America’s credibility with our trading partners and promoting international cooperation to tackle some of the world’s biggest problems, from the global pandemic to climate change. I have not a single doubt that Ms. Tai is the right person for the job.” Feature Image via PBS NewsHour

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