Child labor in competing countries and raw sewage and polluting chemicals in irrigation waters are but part of the unequal impacts upon U.S. agriculture and that of much of the world. Coordination is Key The safety of the American food supply faces another threat, but it is a domestic threat that we can readily control. It is the threat of conflicting policies. Summary Mr. Chairman, I greatly appreciate this emphasis on reducing barriers to trade in agriculture. The concerns I have broached today represent all segments of Florida agriculture, especially the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Agriculture continues to be an important component in our balance of trade.
Our ability to produce food for the world remains one of country's greatest strengths. Our trade policies and negotiations must not be allowed to weaken U.S. food production and the safety of our food supply.