Agricultural News
NCGA Urges Swift Passage of Trade Promotion Authority
Fri, 17 Apr 2015 10:12:38 CDT
The National Corn Growers Association applauded the introduction of bipartisan legislation to renew and modernize Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) and urged Congress to quickly pass the bill.
The Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015 (TPA-2015) introduced by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and House Ways and Means Chairman Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) will help open the door to new markets for U.S. goods and services, grow the U.S. economy and support jobs in all 50 states. TPA was last enacted in 2002 and expired in 2007.
"Trade benefits American corn and livestock farmers, workers and consumers. Agricultural exports are already a major driver of the U.S. economy, supporting more than one million American jobs. If we remove trade barriers and expand our access to global markets, American corn and livestock farmers can do even more," said Chip Bowling, a Maryland farmer and president of NCGA. "Trade Promotion Authority is critical to ensuring farmers get the best possible deal in trade agreements."
"Buyers around the world choose U.S. corn based on quality, the reliability of our export system and because they know our farmers are committed to helping them grow their businesses," said Ron Gray, an Illinois farmer and chairman of the U.S. Grains Council. "Our farmers need a level playing field to help maintain the U.S. competitive advantage and realize the potential we know exists in a dynamic world grain market. TPA will keep pending trade agreements moving forward and, ultimately, help us better meet the world's food and fuel needs."
"The clock is ticking. Major trade agreements are under negotiation in the European Union and Asia Pacific region. The rest of the world is not waiting for us," said Bowling. "We need Trade Promotion Authority to ensure the United States can negotiate the best possible deal for American farmers, businesses, and consumers. It's time for Congress to act."
NCGA is a member of the Trade Benefits America Coalition, representing more than 250 members dedicated to the pursuit of international trade agreements that benefit American businesses, farmers, workers and consumers.
Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association represents 42,000 dues-paying corn farmers nationwide. NCGA and its 48 affiliated state organizations work together to create and increase opportunities for their members and their industry. For more information, contact www.ncga.com.
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