Congressman Henry Cuellar On Suspension Of Doha Trade Talks

CONGRESSMAN HENRY CUELLAR ON SUSPENSION OF DOHA TRADE TALKS

Washington, DC- Today, U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar made the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns and Ambassador Susan Schwab, Office of United State Trade Representative, announced the suspension of the Doha trade talks.

"While I am disappointed that the Doha talks have been suspended, I applaud the strong and principled negotiating position taken by Secretary Johanns and Ambassador Schwab. Trade is the lifeblood of American agriculture but no agreement is better than a bad agreement. Last May, in San Angelo, Texas farmers and ranchers told the House Agriculture Committee that American agriculture should not be unilaterally disarmed. Secretary Johanns and Ambassador Schwab heard that message and held tough. I will continue to work with them as we seek economic growth through increased foreign trade."

With ninety-five percent of the world's population residing outside the U.S. borders, over twenty-five percent of U.S. agriculture cash receipts come from export markets. In many cases, U.S farm products find market access blocked by high tariffs. For example, the current tariff for high quality beef in the European Union is 80 percent. The Doha talks were designed to increase market access for U.S. agricultural products while reducing trade distorting agriculture subsidies.

"I strongly support free and fair trade, and I will continue to fight to give our agricultural products fair access to foreign markets," noted Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Budget and Agriculture committees in the 109th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care and economic development are his priorities.

http://www.house.gov/list/press/tx28_cuellar/060725.html