Any amendments would require another vote in the House of Representatives and send China and our competitors the message that the United States is not serious about opening the China market to U.S. products. The Thompson amendment would require the President to implement sanctions under various circumstances.
Unilateral sanctions have the effect of giving U.S. markets to our competitors.
While there are efforts to exempt food, medicine and agriculture from the existing language, American agricultural producers, regardless of exemptions, would be put at risk. If the United States sanctions or even threatens sanctions for any products, agriculture is often first on the other country's retaliation list. The U.S. agriculture industry continues to face depressed prices. We urgently request your help in achieving a positive vote on PNTR without amendment. Thank you for your help and we look forward to working with you on these important issues.