China, on the other hand, is the world's largest consumer of nitrogen fertilizer, importing as much as 40 percent of the world's output. But, in 1997, China imposed a ban on the import of U.S. nitrogen fertilizer even though it still exported other products to America. As a result, U.S. nitrogen fertilizer prices plummeted to their lowest price in more than 10 years. This could have been prevented if a trade agreement was in place to protect this vital Louisiana industry. Other Louisiana industries would benefit from lower trade restrictions.
China is the world's largest rice producer and cotton consumer, and has a burgeoning soybean market.
It is also the world's third largest wood importer. All of these industries are important to Louisiana. Louisiana's chemical and telecommunications companies stand to enjoy greater economic growth as well. Many fear unfair labor and environmental practices will give China a competitive advantage that hurts American businesses. A trade agreement could actually ease these concerns.