Christopher Shays: “Trade promotion authority enhances the United States' ability to negotiate agreements that help American workers and…”

“Trade promotion authority enhances the United States' ability to negotiate agreements that help American workers and businesses. Just as we can't repeal the laws of gravity, we can't ignore the fact that we live in a world with a global economy. It is estimated if global trade barriers could be cut by just one-third, the world economy would grow more than $600 billion each year. Talk about economic stimulus--this is it! Trade promotion authority will open new markets. Without this authority, trading partners will not put forth meaningful offers. Tariffs on American products won't be reduced, and our economy will grow at a much slower rate. Passing this bill signals to the world we are committed to global trade and free markets. It allows the United States to take a leadership role in building international trading systems based on American principles of market-based economics and fair play. Giving the President the authority to negotiate trade agreements is good for Connecticut, the United States and every country involved. Exports accounted for almost one quarter of all U.S. economic growth in the last 10 years. Trade promotion authority should pass without delay.”