Volume shipped to specific countries in the EU may vary widely from year to year, but the total European market is essentially level. We are cautiously optimistic about improved prospects in Asia. Several of these countries seem to have turned the corner toward economic recovery, but there is still a long way to go. We hope to see some increased interest in resuming their normal purchases, possibly by 2001. And we are encouraged by the possibilities for establishing new markets.
China is one example.
If China is admitted to the World Trade Organization, and if WTO policies continue as they are, this market will finally become available to the U.S. tobacco industry. Even a small step in this trading door will make a tremendous difference for U.S. tobacco trade in the 21st Century. Extensive research led by Dr. Harvey Spurr at the Oxford Research Station in North Carolina has produced reams of data proving that U.S. tobacco does not pose a threat for introducing blue mold into China. Yet China's phytosanitary restriction remains in place. U.S. Trade Negotiators will continue to try to reach an agreement with China to remove this barrier during this summer's bilateral trade negotiations.