Expand Our Nation's Export Markets

Floor Speech

EXPAND OUR NATION'S EXPORT MARKETS -- (House of Representatives - October 02, 2007)

(Mr. SMITH of Nebraska asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of expanding our Nation's export markets. Last week Congress was challenged to implement the proposed free trade agreement with Peru. It is a challenge we need to meet.

The agreement laid on the table will create significant new opportunities for American farmers, ranchers, businesses and consumers by opening new markets and reducing trade barriers.

Nebraska's agriculture producers, manufacturers and service providers deserve more access to foreign markets. Last month I hosted a forum on the importance of exports for Nebraska and the United States.

Trade supports nearly one in five jobs in Nebraska, and Nebraska exported $2.8 billion worth of agriculture products in 2005.

Opening new export markets has long been a priority of mine. It goes without saying that agriculture markets are tremendously important to my district and the Nation as a whole, and I hope to help Nebraska's products continue to compete in the global marketplace.

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