About Trade
"Free and fair trade helps secure a future of freedom and promise."
President George W. Bush
World Trade Week Proclomation
May 16, 2008
News Highlights
Gutierrez Touts Sweet Success of a Record Year for Exports in 2007
Washington (Feb. 14)—At a trade rally at the U.S. Chamber, Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez announced that U.S. exports for 2007 reached record-breaking levels and stressed the need to continue export momentum by opening new markets and passing the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. Colombian goods such, as Valentine’s Day flowers, come to the United States duty free, while U.S. products that support the flower industry face tariffs upon entering the Colombian market. The Colombian flower industry supports roughly 230,000 American jobs. (Release) (Report) (Fact Sheet)
Assistant Secretary Spooner Addresses Trade Issues at National Association of Foreign Trade Zones
Washington (Feb. 12)—International Trade Administration Assistant Secretary for Import Administration David Spooner delivered keynote remarks at the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ) and addressed the valuable role foreign trade zones play in contributing to America’s export growth. “I’ve come to recognize the value of FTZ’s in carrying out broader policy objectives, particularly promoting exports and economic growth,” he said. (More)
New Agriculture Chief to Promote Trade and U.S. Agriculture Exports
Washington (Feb. 6)— Ed Schafer was sworn in as the new Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). President Bush attended the ceremonial swearing-in and highlighted the important role the USDA head will play in opening markets for U.S. agriculture. “…Ed is going to join with other members of my administration to work to pass free trade agreements with Colombia and Panama and South Korea. We will support a successful conclusion to the Doha round of trade talks. Ed and I are going to work tirelessly to open foreign markets for U.S. beef.” (Remarks)
President Bush Says Trade Important Aspect for Keeping Economic Vitality Alive
Kansas City, Mo. (Feb. 1)— During a speech at Hallmark Cards, Inc. in Kansas City Missouri, President Bush discussed the importance of free trade for companies like Hallmark and for the U.S. economy. The President warned against protectionism and highlighted the need to have, “confidence in our capacity to compete in the world.” President Bush also stressed the need to quickly pass the economic stimulus package. (Remarks)
