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Wheat groups support USTR action
The American Wheat industry organizations on Jan. 14 expressed strong approval of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick's efforts to re-energize WTO negotiations. Zoellick recently sent a letter to ministerial colleagues around the world, sharing "some common sense reflections on where we stand on the Doha Agenda and ideas on how we might advance it together."
"We agree with Ambassador Zoellick that these negotiations are much too important to be allowed to languish," said Alan Lee, chairman of U.S. Wheat Associates. "We don't expect that this single particular initiative will result in immediate agreement on the issues, but we hope it stirs the hopes that were flying so high when nations first started this long and difficult process."
"The WTO negotiations are the most important process of opening markets for the Wheat industry. We commend Ambassador Zoellick for this effort to reenergize the Doha negotiations," Bruce Hamnes, chairman of the Wheat Export Trade Education Committee stated. "Increased market access, elimination of export subsidies by a date certain, and disciplines on State Trading Enterprises are all things that the U.S. Wheat industry supports 100 percent."
Tommy Womack, president of the National Association of Wheat Growers acknowledged the efforts that Zoellick is making towards keeping the developing countries included in the commitments. "While we understand that some developing countries need longer time frames for their commitments, it is still important that they also make some progress in opening their markets. A negotiation is not a negotiation unless everyone participates."
In his letter, Zoellick indicated that his thoughts "are not intended to launch breakthrough proposals" but will hopefully nevertheless "offer a sense of how we might move ahead."
In regards to agriculture, the letter suggests that WTO Members agree to eliminate agricultural export subsidies by a date certain. In addition, Zoellick suggests, members should agree to substantially decrease and harmonize levels of trade-distorting domestic support, and seek a substantial increase in real market access opportunities both in developed and major developing economies. The letter notes that the U.S. stands by its 2002 proposal to set a goal of total elimination of trade-distorting subsidies and barriers to market access. The letter also suggests that domestic supports, export subsidies, and tariffs for cotton (including cotton textiles) be cut substantially as part of a comprehensive agreement.
The U.S. Wheat industry renews its commitment to assist, in any way we can, to bring real reform that will result in fairer international markets for American Wheat producers. The U.S. Wheat industry exports nearly half of its production, and has made clear its positions on various issues under negotiation. Above all, the industry has been united in urging the administration to move the agenda forward and to fight hard for success in a comprehensive round.
Date: 1/29/04
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