David Thomas: “While I would agree that our Trade Representative Mickey Kantor has done an impressive job, not only in negotiations…”

“While I would agree that our Trade Representative Mickey Kantor has done an impressive job, not only in negotiations with Japan but with other countries as well, most notably China, but I would also agree with the vast majority of economic analysts who believe that most of the improving climate for American cars in Japan is due to natural market forces. For example, over the last year or so the yen has grown stronger compared with the dollar, making American goods cheaper in Japan. Matsushita Noriyuki, a senior economic analyst at the Nikko Research Centre, attributes increased sales of U.S. cars in his country primarily to the fact that the price of those cars has decreased. In addition, Matsushita points to major changes made by American car manufacturers to accommodate Japanese tastes and habits--such as increased attention to quality, right-hand steering wheels, and smaller model sizes--as a major factor in increased sales. More importantly, trade agreements struck before Mr. Clinton took office--under Republican administrations--are finally bearing fruit. Mr. President, since 1992 we've grown used to a Clinton foreign policy that is an oxymoron, to a foreign policy that is reactive rather than proactive.”