Chile, for example, has been at the forefront of Latin American nations in liberalizing trade, while setting an example to the world of a free people reclaiming their democracy and making the transition to a mature, developed economy. Leaders from many other nations have now told us they want to pursue free trade agreements with the United States. By moving on multiple fronts, we can create a competition in liberalization that will promote open markets in our hemisphere and around the world. That time is over. That is real money for farmers, nurses, teachers, police officers, and office workers, not bonuses for corporate executives.
Trade barriers hurt families.
When trade is restricted, hard-working fathers and mothers pay the biggest portions of their paychecks for the higher cost food, clothing, and appliances imposed through taxes on trade. These facts for families are also reflected in benefits for nations. In Canada, employment grew 10 percent, and generated 1.3 million jobs. And in the United States, employment grew more than 7 percent, and generated about 13 million jobs. This accelerated recovery also benefited the United States.