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Congressman Doc Hastings' statement on Implementation of U.S. Colombia Trade Deal

Statement

Date: May 15, 2012
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Trade

"While long overdue, there is no question that today's implementation of this trade agreement with Colombia means new opportunities and job growth potential for Washington state growers and manufacturers," said Congressman Doc Hastings. "It is a matter of fairness. Colombian products have enjoyed open access to the United States for almost two decades while U.S. exports have faced tariffs as high as 20 percent. Since August 15th of last year, our growers and manufacturers were placed at an even further disadvantage when our neighbor to the north gained duty-free access to the Colombian market -- while the U.S. agreement continued to languish within the Obama White House.

"One in three jobs in Washington state is dependent on international trade," Hastings added. "I am pleased that Washington state businesses will finally be able to compete on a level playing field in this growing market."


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