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NASDA encourages biotechnology approvals reform in trade negotiations with China
Story Date: 4/12/2019
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Source: PRESS RELEASE, 4/11/19
The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) sent a letter to United State Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer today encouraging the administration to remain focused on seeking removal of non-tariff barriers to agricultural exports including structural reform of the biotechnology approval process to create a system that is more predictable, reliable and transparent. The letter comes as USTR continues negotiations with China and follows a recent vote by NASDA Members to encourage the administration to pursue a resolution with China that restores full market access for U.S. agricultural and food products.
NASDA CEO Dr. Barbara P. Glenn underscored the importance of biotechnology for rural economic growth, environmental protection, and farmer productivity in her letter.
“Delays in Chinese approvals have cost the U.S. in terms of farm income, wage growth, jobs, and GDP growth. Should the delays in Chinese approvals persist, the U.S. could forego an increase in $5 billion in farm income and almost 20,000 jobs over five years.“
“NASDA encourages the administration to remain focused on seeking removal of non-tariff barriers to agricultural exports and structural reform of the biotechnology approval process and looks forward to making progress for American free trade.”
NASDA represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries, and directors of the departments of agriculture in all fifty states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances agriculture by forging partnerships and creating consensus to achieve sound policy outcomes between state departments of agriculture, the federal government, and stakeholders.
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