Smith has indicated that reducing trade barriers and promoting agricultural exports will be a principal function of the Agriculture Committee in the 105th Congress, his first as Chairman. There is no question that the economic progress Chile has made is evident and that country's adherence to free market principles and a strong private sector is admirable. However, Chile bans several United States agriculture products due to what appear to be non-tariff barriers. United States wheat, beef, poultry, and many fruits and vegetables are prohibited from entry into Chile. I hope you will raise these issues with President Frei during his visit to the United States.
American agriculture is successful because of the productivity of our farmers and ranchers.
Exports are the future of American agriculture. The complete text of Smith's letter to Clinton follows this release. Chile's President Frei visits the United States late this month. Smith represents Oregon's Second Congressional District, which includes the agricultural regions of eastern, southern, and central Oregon, in the U.S. House of Representatives.