The House Small Business Committee asked small business leaders for their recommendations for the new U.S. Trade Representative on how to promote exports by small companies and create American jobs Wednesday. Committee Chairman Sam Graves says small businesses will boldly take their products and services to world markets – but need an open door. He says Free Trade Agreements must streamline access to foreign markets so small businesses have the resources to make that investment. According to Graves – the Committee heard the message small business goods and services can compete – but too often face unfair trade conditions.
National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson was among those testifying before the Small Business Committee. She focused on the benefits for family farmers of expanding export markets and maximizing foreign market access. Johnson said agricultural producers succeed when industry and government work side-by-side. She called it critical for U.S. negotiators to have an appreciation for how increasing exports translates into benefits for family farmers. According to Johnson – the U.S. economy won’t benefit from ag issues being placed on a ‘to do’ list. She said now is the perfect time to eliminate long standing barriers to ag exports and promote policies that bring economic opportunity back to rural America.
Johnson told committee members that the nation’s corn growers have much to gain from government policies that encourage exports and facilitate small, family-owned farms entering the global marketplace. Developing new markets for America’s agricultural products – she said – will help the sector lead the nation in economic growth and international competitiveness.
Specifically speaking to the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership – Johnson noted NCGA has joined other agricultural trade associations in calling for a comprehensive agreement that tackles the significant hurdles that must be overcome when dealing with agricultural products. She said the biggest challenge for NCGA members is approval of corn and corn products derived through biotechnology.
Source: NAFB News Service