BERLIN, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The trade conflict between China and United States should be handled under the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, a German economist said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"It is important to stick to WTO rules, from which the United States is deviating right now," said Thore Schlaak, with German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin).

Schlaak believed both sides should go back to the table and negotiate on the basis of rules. "This will help go forward to prevent the world from falling into a trade war," he added.

"Both sides should recognize that trade is not a zero sum game. Everybody can profit from the trade, both Chinese and U.S. sides," Schlaak said.

Meanwhile, Schlaak considers WTO as the proper mediator.

According to him, economists fear that improper dealing with the issue could affect global business activities.

"Less investment and higher global uncertainty will lead to slower growth of world GDP," Schlaak noted.