An ally, not an enemy

French acknowledged that many politicians in Washington do not seem to understand that China can be an ally in the US leaders' attempts to solve their country's economic troubles, not an enemy.

"There's a lot of sword-rattling that goes on in terms of election politics," he said.

Shay had similar thoughts.

"Washington has been quick to respond to political pressure by imposing restrictions on trade with China," he said. "But the truth is that these restrictions do little, if anything, to protect or create US jobs.

"Most of the merchandise retailers import from China simply isn't made in the United States at affordable prices or in commercial quantities anymore. Trade barriers that keep our industry from sourcing goods in China mean that the trade simply shifts to other foreign countries. US policymakers need to see China as a market and a valuable trading partner, not the enemy."

"I'm a big believer that trade can solve a lot of problems between countries," French said. "We should look to be partners, not adversaries."