In response to the announcement by 14 major trading partners of their intention to negotiate an agreement to eliminate tariffs on environmental technologies under the umbrella of the World Trade Organization, NFTC Vice President for Global Trade Issues Jake Colvin — who is in Geneva for the launch along with other global businesses and associations — released the following statement:
“NFTC applauds today’s launch of talks towards an Environmental Goods Agreement. The green goods initiative is a chance to show how trade policies can address a pressing global challenge and improve environmental outcomes.
“While eliminating tariffs is often thought of as a concession in trade agreements, this initiative provides an opportunity to flip that thinking. Countries who join up and agree to cut tariffs will lower the cost of adopting green technologies.
“The EGA is also a chance to demonstrate that the World Trade Organization can serve as a nimble forum to negotiate new trade commitments that benefit business and the global good.
“NFTC commends the group of 14 negotiators for this announcement. We want to recognize President Obama and Ambassador Froman for their leadership in emphasizing the economic and environmental benefits of this initiative. We look forward to working with the U.S. Government and other economies to advance an ambitious agreement “
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