On the recordOctober 11, 2011
I thank the gentleman. Madam Speaker, I rise this evening in support of the Colombia free trade agreement, and, indeed, all three free trade agreements, the most significant trade package for our country in more than a decade. These trade pacts with Colombia, South Korea, and Panama are significant. They will unlock new opportunities and markets for Pennsylvania companies to sell their products overseas, and that means more jobs. By leveling the playing field and eliminating burdensome tariffs, these agreements will improve our ability to sell American-made products overseas. Specifically, in Pennsylvania, these agreements will be a boon for the Commonwealth's farmers and provide new opportunities in other key export sectors of Pennsylvania, including primary metal producers. Tariffs on more than 90 percent of primary metals, such as steel, titanium, aluminum, and zinc will be eliminated immediately. Once the free trade agreement with South Korea is fully implemented, more than 70 percent of all Pennsylvania exports will be duty-free. And similar trade opportunities exist in the Colombia and Panama free trade agreements as well. As we continue to lose market share in these regions, Pennsylvanians, and indeed all Americans, simply cannot afford another delay in these agreements. Pass them now.
