Many would like to see such programs negotiated away and call for a level playing field. The Pacific Northwest wheat industry is especially focused on this issue. A one-dollar per bushel export subsidy in Europe has helped create the disparity. Several speakers want WTO talks to address the enterprises. American exporters are also worried about outright bans on commodities due to perceived sanitary or phytosanitary issues that may be dubious at best.
New technology can be a boon to agricultural production.
The use of genetically modified organisms has helped U.S. crops become more disease and pest resistant reportedly without compromising safety of the food. But in areas of the world where skeptical consumers may not accept such technology, Northwest growers may be shut out. Any regulations involving food safety, including genetically modified organisms, need to be based on science. Finally, Oregon producers see a potential golden goose for exports in China. Of all the issues to be discussed by the WTO, the accession of China may be the most publicized and controversial.