Category: Press Releases and Statements

Agriculture and Manufacturing Leaders Urge Renewal of USMCA

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

Panel hosted by the National Corn Growers Association and the National Foreign Trade Council brings together leaders from the agriculture, automotive and technology sectors to discuss the agreement’s impact on American jobs and competitiveness.

Washington, D.C. – Leaders from the agriculture, manufacturing and technology sectors convened in Washington today to highlight the importance of renewing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement as the landmark trade agreement approaches its formal review period.

The panel discussion, hosted by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC), underscored how the trilateral agreement supports American jobs, strengthens North American supply chains and helps U.S. industries compete globally.

Speakers from agriculture and manufacturing sector, along with a United States senator, emphasized the broad economic impact of USMCA, noting how the agreement has strengthened North American trade and created greater certainty for businesses across sectors. They also highlighted how the trilateral framework helps American companies compete globally while supporting jobs and investment throughout the United States.

“I appreciate the National Foreign Trade Council and the National Corn Growers Association for hosting this important conversation,” said Senator Young, the keynote speaker at the event. “Working to improve and preserve USMCA is critical for Indiana’s agricultural and manufacturing communities who rely on the certainty and stability of market access in North America.”

Participants in the discussion included Matt Frostic, a Michigan farmer and first vice president of the National Corn Growers Association; Elizabeth Kosobucki, director of trade policy strategy at Ford Motor Company; and Colton Hotary, senior director of government and corporate affairs at LG. The conversation was moderated by Doug Palmer of Politico.

“USMCA has been incredibly important for farmers like me,” said Matt Frostic, a fifth-generation Michigan farmer and first vice president of the National Corn Growers Association. “Mexico and Canada are two of our most important export markets and the certainty this agreement provides allows farmers to plan, invest and continue feeding and fueling the world. As the agreement enters its review period, it’s important that policymakers focus on strengthening what works so American agriculture and industry can continue to grow.”

NFTC senior director and USMCA lead, Brad Wood added: “We are pleased to partner with NCGA to underscore that USMCA is critical for American workers across every sector, from farmer to plant operator. U.S. production and manufacturing rely on the indispensable inputs and efficiencies from our geographic allies. They are also our top customers; America exports more to Canada and Mexico than its next 8 export markets combined. We must prioritize these partnerships, restore predictability, and renew a trilateral USMCA.”

The event is part of broader efforts by the Agricultural Coalition for USMCA to highlight the agreement’s importance to American agriculture and ensure policymakers preserve and strengthen the trilateral trade framework.

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About the National Corn Growers Association

Founded in 1957, NCGA represents more than 36,000 dues-paying corn growers in 48 states, and the interests of more than 500,000 farmers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their states. NCGA and its affiliated associations in 27 states work together to help protect and advance corn growers’ interests.

About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

Industry Groups Urge the Administration to Extend USMCA

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

WASHINGTON, D.C.- The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) today joined nearly 70 leading industry associations representing the full breadth of the U.S. economy in calling on the administration to extend the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and to ensure stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

In a letter addressed to United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, the groups reiterated their strong support for a trilateral USMCA, highlighting the importance of one agreement with both Canada and Mexico to American competitiveness. The letter emphasizes the importance of ongoing stakeholder consultations as the administration engages Canada and Mexico on upgrades to the agreement.

The associations make the case that “[a]s the United States’ largest export markets and primary sources of indispensable inputs, Mexico and Canada are foundational to our economic strength and resilience.”

“U.S. production and supply chains are built on trillions in long-term investment, which have been refined over years to be highly efficient to comply with USMCA’s rigorous framework,” the letter continues. “Material changes to USMCA requirements or rules of origin could lead to multi-year supply chain disruptions at significant cost to companies invested in America, raise consumer prices, and erode North American competitiveness. It is therefore imperative that proposals, including rules of origin, be clear, implementable, recognize manufacturing and production realities, and minimize trade disruptions.”

The groups reinforced their commitment to working constructively with the administration towards a positive outcome while also emphasizing the importance of restoring duty-free North American trade.

Read the full text here.

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

NFTC Urges Administration and Congress Towards New Approaches after Landmark IEEPA Decision

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

WASHINGTON, D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) President Jake Colvin today issued a statement following the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement tariffs:

“It’s a relief to see the Supreme Court unequivocally decide that IEEPA did not provide the authority for the administration to impose more than $133 billion in tariffs on American businesses and consumers.

“In the short-term, this ruling could increase uncertainty as companies digest the impact of this decision, but ultimately should bring longer-term relief for American businesses and consumers.

“We hope the administration will seize this opportunity to recalibrate its approach rather than rushing to replicate some or all of the tariffs through other means.

“The administration has a unique chance to pivot towards a much more targeted approach to tariffs while focusing on lowering prices for businesses and consumers and creating greater certainty with our trading partners.

“Tariff authority belongs to Congress. This decision should be an inflection point and a reason for Congress to finally reclaim control of its Constitutional authority. We encourage a bipartisan effort to reform the delegation of the full range of tariff authorities, which would increase certainty for American businesses and consumers.

“We urge the administration to honor the spirit of the decision and identify a low-burden and automated administrative process to return tariff revenue to U.S. importers quickly and efficiently.”

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About the NFTC
The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

U.S.-India Joint Statement Marks Important Progress in Bilateral Commercial Relationship

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

Washington, D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Vice President for Global Trade Policy Tiffany Smith released a statement following the administration’s announcement of a Joint Statement providing the outline of an “Interim Agreement” with India:

“The Joint Statement announcing a framework for an Interim Agreement with India is an important development in our relationship with one of the world’s biggest economies, and we thank the administration, and USTR in particular, for their efforts. 

“We were pleased to see a significant reduction in tariffs in both the U.S. and India, as well as progress on a number of challenging issues such as the elimination of India’s import licensing in the ICT sector and a commitment to addressing digital trade barriers that limit opportunities for U.S. companies in India.

“We hope the Interim Agreement creates momentum to conclude the comprehensive U.S.-India Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), addresses additional irritants, further reduces bilateral tariffs, and delivers on the promise of a mutually beneficial bilateral relationship. 

“A critical element of the BTA’s outcomes on digital trade must include India’s support for a permanent global moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions at the WTO’s 14th Ministerial Conference, and we urge the administration to keep pressing India to make this commitment in advance of the ministerial.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

Congress and the Administration Must Continue to Safeguard America’s Technology Competitiveness

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

Washington, D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Vice President for Global Trade Policy Tiffany Smith issued a statement today on the House Ways & Means Trade Subcommittee hearing on “Maintaining American Innovation and Technology Leadership.”

“Today’s hearing underscores the important role the United States should play in creating a globally competitive environment where American innovators, creators, technology, and services firms can thrive. Thank you to the subcommittee for calling today’s hearing and to the members for their longstanding staunch support for U.S. technological leadership.

“Crucially, the United States must continue to push back on foreign government actions that discriminate or disadvantage U.S. companies, and we thank the administration for their continued commitment and recent successes in this area. 

“However, governments around the world continue to seek to protect their markets and profit from U.S. companies’ success. We urge Congress and the administration to continue fighting to level the playing field so that American businesses can continue to deliver cutting-edge technologies, products, and services around the world.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

Side-by-Side Agreement Is Crucial Step Forward in International Tax Framework Negotiations

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

WASHINGTON D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Vice President for International Tax Policy Anne Gordon today issued the following statement:

“Today’s announcement that the OECD Inclusive Framework created a safe harbor for robust national tax systems like that of the United States is a crucial step forward in the long path toward securing a more certain international tax framework. This move recognizes that tax systems which accomplish the goals of BEPS are on par with the Pillar Two global minimum tax and should therefore coexist with the international framework.

“Additionally, ensuring an appropriate treatment for non-refundable credits and other tax incentives is a much-needed development, which has long been a priority of the U.S. business community by allowing countries to determine the best model for incentivizing real economic investment without disadvantaging American companies. 

“We also welcome the temporary extension of the Transitional CbCR Safe Harbor and creation of the Ultimate Parent Entity Safe Harbor, which will provide a more seamless transition for companies to the new guidance, including the Simplified Effective Tax Rate Safe Harbor.

“Thank you to the administration for its commitment to these negotiations and for ensuring that American companies can compete on a level playing field and are not burdened by superfluous or duplicative requirements, and to Congress for their dedication to the success of American companies globally.

“NFTC looks forward to comprehensively reviewing the guidance from the OECD and will continue to participate in this process to minimize any unintended consequences resulting from the integration of the two systems.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

NFTC Outlines Priorities for USMCA Review

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

WASHINGTON, D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Senior Director for Trade and Innovation Brad Wood today outlined NFTC’s priorities for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) during USTR’s hearing on the first joint review.

“As the United States continues to pursue a reset in trading relationships globally, the bedrock of U.S. competitiveness remains a strong and united North American marketplace—one that supports affordable domestic manufacturing and enables American firms to compete and win in global markets,” said Brad Wood in his testimony. “This success depends on an integrated North American framework grounded in stability, and that stability can only be ensured if all three governments stand firmly behind the agreement and move to renew the USMCA.”

“Whether we call this a review or a renegotiation, our priority is clear,” Wood added. “We urge the parties to engage in earnest to make the progress necessary that will enable each government to agree at the Joint Review to extend the agreement.”

NFTC’s full testimony can be found here.

NFTC’s full submission and priorities, upon which this testimony is based, can be found here.

Brad’s bio is available here.

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

Addressing Discriminatory Policies Should Be Top of Mind During USTR, Commerce EU Visit

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

WASHINGTON D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Vice President for Global Trade Policy Tiffany Smith today issued the following statement:

“A strong U.S.-EU bilateral relationship is crucial to the success of American businesses, and Secretary Lutnick and Ambassador Greer’s trip to Europe next week comes at a pivotal moment. 

“Although the EU is one of our closest allies, we have been disappointed by the bloc’s continued commitment to its discriminatory digital sovereignty agenda and regulatory overreach of sustainability measures, including the Deforestation Regulation and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D).”

“This Administration has had tremendous success in addressing discriminatory policies elsewhere, and we hope that finding a resolution to these issues tops next week’s agenda.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

NFTC Welcomes Introduction of Canada’s DST Repeal Legislation

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

Washington D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Vice President for International Tax Policy Anne Gordon today issued a statement following the introduction of legislation in Canada to repeal its digital services tax (DST).

“We welcome the news that Canada is taking the necessary steps to fulfill its commitment from earlier this year by formally introducing legislation to repeal its DST – a move that will hopefully bring both countries closer as they continue their engagements across a number of multilateral and bilateral forums, including the first USMCA review.

“The Trump Administration and Congress have made it clear that they will not tolerate discrimination against American companies. We encourage countries that currently have or are considering these unprincipled measures to follow Canada’s lead.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.

NFTC Statement on Senate Tariff Votes

Posted on by Veronica Berkshire

Washington, D.C. – National Foreign Trade Council Vice President for Global Trade Policy Tiffany Smith released a statement following votes in the United States Senate to adopt resolutions to terminate tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA):

“As we look ahead to oral argument on the IEEPA tariff cases at the Supreme Court next week, it is encouraging to see the Senate express its support for ending the three underlying national emergencies. 

“Regardless of how the Supreme Court may ultimately rule on the legality of the IEEPA duties, Congress has an obligation to embrace its Constitutional right to regulate tariffs and provide oversight, guidance, and guardrails for their use. Until that happens, American consumers, farmers, and small businesses will continue to bear the costs and uncertainty from the current wide-ranging imposition of tariffs.”

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About the NFTC

The National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) is the premier business association advancing trade, tax, national security and supply chain policies that support access to the global marketplace. Founded in 1914, NFTC promotes an open, rules-based global economy on behalf of a diverse membership of U.S.-based businesses, who account for over $6 trillion in revenue and employ nearly 6 million people in the United States.