Air forwarders urge Cogress to move on trade initiatives

Last week, we noted that the nation’s leading port authorities were adamant about trade legislation getting underway. Now air forwarders are getting into the act.

The Airforwarders Association, which represents more than 360 companies that move air cargo through the supply chain, has also applauded an agreement reached by Congressional leaders to advance legislation giving the President authority to conclude key global trade agreements.

The legislation, known as trade promotion authority or TPA, would give President Obama “fast track” authority to get Congressional approval on impending new trade agreements such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and the Trade in Services Agreement (TISA).

The Executive Director of the Airforwarders Association, Brandon Fried, noted the deals will open a range of foreign markets to “Made in America” exports and will boost U.S. jobs, invigorate the supply chain and benefit the companies involved in moving products internationally.

“The record on trade agreements is clear.  They allow American businesses to sell products, produce and services
to the 95 percent of consumers who live outside the United States,” said Fried.  “Increasing trade helps businesses large and small grow and hire more people.  One in five American jobs is supported by trade.”

“Our own association has a large representation of small and medium-sized enterprises, and we’ve been anxious to see these agreements move forward.  We welcome the news that Congress is proceeding with a fast-track bill so that we can get these deals done,” said Fried, who added that the agreements will help further streamline border clearance operations for U.S. exports as they enter other countries, thereby reducing non-tariff barriers for U.S. products.

The AfA is a member of the Trade Benefits America Coalition, which includes a wide range of associations and companies that are dedicated to the pursuit of U.S. international trade agreements that benefit American businesses, farmers, workers and consumers.