The council said these delays were creating opportunities for competing suppliers. "Monthslong license delays are costing the United States billions in exports and eroding American market share globally," the report said.

　　Among respondents, 71 percent reported delays in obtaining licenses to export to China, while 82 percent said their pending applications covered products with comparable alternatives available from non-US suppliers, and this allowed their competitors to fill the gap.

　　Despite the overall downturn, China remained the third-largest US export market, said the October report, which covers goods exports and excludes services.

　　Citing the stakes for businesses, farmers and consumers, the council urged both countries to use trade negotiations to reduce barriers.

　　"American companies need lasting tariff relief from both governments," the report said.

　　liazhu@chinadailyusa.com