NCBA Concerned with Trade Office Mergers
US - Following the governments announcement to merge the Office of the US Trade Representative with other trade agencies, Bill Donald, President of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) says that whilst he supports administration’s recognition of the need to improve government efficiency and eliminate wasteful spending, precautions must be in place to avoid unintended consequences.
18 January 2012
1 minute read
“NCBA has strong concerns about President Obama’s proposal to merge the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) with other trade agencies. NCBA maintains that USTR should remain an independent agency within the Executive Office of the President, focusing on trade negotiations, trade agreements and trade enforcement. USTR is vital to ensuring successful trade negotiations concerning US beef and other agricultural commodities with our global trade partners. USTR must be in a position to have direct access to the White House.
“By being an independent office within the White House, USTR serves an important role reducing trade barriers and advocating for free and fair trade for all sectors of the US economy. USTR has played a crucial role in expanding exports of US beef by ensuring the passage of free trade agreements and working to achieve science-based trade protocols.
“NCBA is extremely concerned that USTR’s ability to continue its effectiveness will be jeopardized if it is wrapped into the massive Department of Commerce. NCBA has a strong history of working closely with USTR on behalf of the beef industry. We strongly support the continuation of the current structure and functions of USTR.”
TheCattleSite News Desk
