We already have benefitted from the liberalization that has occurred in Latin America and the Caribbean. And these sub-regional trade agreements have broken much new ground and demonstrate the potential of free trade. This growth shows that regional integration is working at a rapid pace. And these agreements can help prepare countries for eventual hemispheric free trade by injecting greater competition to their economies. But there are real reasons for concern, and they suggest we must get on with the FTAA, and soon.
Chile is a prime example.
There is a viable free trade process in place ready to produce results once we get fast track. There is much to be gained from tearing down trade barriers abroad. Today, millions of Americans directly or indirectly owe their jobs to exports. The United States is the world s largest exporter. If we do not choose to take the lead now, we run the real risk of falling behind.