U.S. Agriculture Groups Call for WTO Support
A coalition of 30 agriculture and food organizations recently sent a letter to congressional leaders urging support for the United States’ role in the World Trade Organization (WTO). The groups stressed the importance of a rules-based trading system that facilitates the growth of U.S. agricultural exports and ensures global food security.
The letter, addressed to leaders in both the Senate Finance Committee and House Ways and Means Committee, emphasizes that without continued U.S. participation in the WTO, the nation could lose valuable market access for its agricultural products. It also warns that a weakened WTO could undermine the ability to create international trade rules that benefit the U.S. and its farmers.
“U.S. global leadership is vital to ensuring the future of rules-based trade that benefits American agriculture,” said CRA President and CEO John Bode. “The WTO is not without its flaws, but it is foundational to our existing trading system and includes rules and principles that are critical to our industry. The WTO and the people working to uphold order in global trade deserve the strong support of the U.S. government.”
“Since the U.S. joined the WTO in 1995, American food and agriculture have benefited from a more stable and predictable global trading system, “said IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes, D.V.M. “That foundation has allowed us to deliver safe, nutritious and high-quality products to customers around the world, supporting global food security and improved nutrition. Continued U.S. leadership at the WTO is essential to build on that progress and ensure we remain a trusted partner in meeting the needs of global customers.”
The coalition’s call to action underscores that, while challenges exist within the WTO, its ongoing function is crucial for U.S. economic strength and global prosperity.
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