The United States is the most open major market in the world. We must work together toward continuing to open our competitors' markets. To do this we must have the strongest trade agreements possible. Agreements must not jeopardize our industry for social issues but must move us forward in the global marketplace. The administration must have the authority guided by sound trade objectives and principles to negotiate and bring to Congress trade agreements that will benefit agriculture and the nation.
International trade can and does created significant markets for U.S. agricultural commodities.
Agreements must ensure that trade is both free and fair for all products. We need to continue to monitor and enforce these accords to make sure the benefits promised to farmers and ranchers are fully realized and move forward in creating new and stronger markets for all U.S. industries. For this to be accomplished, Congress must be willing to commit necessary resources to agencies responsible for monitoring international trading disciplines and procedures. Attached to this testimony are a few specifics on why this is so critical to the nation. Mr. Chairman, our current trade agreements have been basically good for agriculture but adjustments are needed for some sectors.