Congress needs to pass trade agreements now

Congress is beginning to move forward on the three pending free trade agreements with South Korea, Columbia and Panama. These agreements have been delayed for years, resulting in lost market share for U.S. farmers in these countries as they have implemented trade agreements with Canada, the EU and other countries. New York stands to benefit by nearly $30 million a year in additional agricultural exports and 250 jobs if these agreements are signed. The entire U.S. will benefit by $2.5 billion in exports and 22,500 new jobs. Right now, all three countries are able to export their agricultural products to the U.S. tariff-free, however U.S. ag products are entering their countries with tariffs of 160 to 500 percent. Free trade will provide benefits to fruit, vegetable, dairy, grain, and beef and other livestock farmers in these three countries. Please urge your Senators and Congressional representative today to support the swift passage of all three trade agreements to protect and expand markets for New York producers. New York State Farm Bureau