By Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17)
Trade is a powerful tool in developing strategic and mutually-beneficial relationships with other nations. Proposed by President Donald Trump, the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) replaced the previous North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that was passed in 1993. The USMCA boosts trade while aligning labor expectations and environmental guidelines among our three nations. These long-over-due changes helped bring a level playing field to all countries involved. Over one year ago, the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada ratified the USMCA.
The USMCA serves as a notice to friends and foes alike that we are prepared to work together for the long haul. The agreement allows for a more flourishing relationship that provides the necessary balance between all three countries. The USMCA has helped develop renewed closeness between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It offers significant value to the United States as Mexico and Canada are its largest trading partners.
Of note, these countries are critical trading partners for Texas. Specifically, in Central Texas, the trade agreement has opened new markets for farmers and ranchers to sell chicken, eggs and dairy products. It also includes data protection for agricultural chemicals spanning 10 years.
In Congress, bipartisan agreement is hard to come by. The House of Representatives, Senate, and the White House are currently controlled by the Democratic Party. Though the USMCA originally passed Congress with widespread bi-partisan support, no action relating to the trade agreement has been presented by Democratic leadership this year. The United States Trade Representative and counterparts must continue to move the ball forward.
Since President Joe Biden’s administration took office, our relationship with our North and South American counterparts has felt unstable due to poor policy initiatives. Between the excess amount of illegal border crossings and the cancelation of the Keystone XL pipeline project, we must find ways to mend our trading relationship and interests with Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the widespread COVID-19 pandemic impacted many economies worldwide. We need balanced opportunities to enhance the economy of the United States while maintaining a focus on health and individuals’ overall well-being. I am working closely with colleagues across the aisle to find solutions.
At the crux of the United States’ success is the free enterprise system. I believe that pressing into the free market will help the economy to rebound after the pandemic and enhance American competitiveness. Time has proven that the free enterprise system generates more wealth and lifts more people out of poverty than any other economic system in history. It is inevitable for the United States’ continued success in the 21st century.
