CONTACTS: John Reid/J.P. Fielder
(202) 463-5682 / 888-249-NEWS

 

May 20, 2008      

 

Chamber Leads Lobbying Efforts on World Trade Day
"Our Members are Frustrated by Congress' Inaction," Donohue Says

WASHINGTON, D.C.--   As America celebrates World Trade Week, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will lead a delegation of its members on lobbying visits to Capitol Hill today to urge Congress to act on the pending trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea.

"Our members are frustrated by Congress' inaction on these agreements," said Tom Donohue, the U.S. Chamber's president and CEO.  "They recognize that trade creates quality jobs in America and it is unacceptable for Congress to continue down this path toward isolationism.
Failing to act on these agreements represents a U-turn for our country that would choke off innovation and prosperity at a time we need it most."

In the 546 days that the U.S.-Colombia FTA has lingered in Congress since it was signed, American businesses and workers have paid over $1 billion in unnecessary tariffs that the trade agreement would eliminate.  That's $672 for every manufacturing worker in the United States.

"It's time for Congress to put partisan politics aside and look out for American workers," Donohue said.  "Our members understand this and now they're ready to take their message to the Hill and educate congressional leaders on the benefits of trade."

More information about the Colombia FTA is available at www.latradecoalition.org/

 

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

# # #

 

08-137