Froman ‘Cautiously Optimistic’ About TTIP Talks

U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman talked with cattle producers about ongoing trade negotiations, and offered a positive outlook.

Froman on TTIP

Froman told the producers he’s cautiously optimistic about the Trans-Pacific Partnership and getting Japan to drop their tariffs to zero, although he is unsure about a specific timeline. Froman says the timeline for TTIP is farther down the road especially with transition to a new EU commission after recent elections. However, he says they are making good progress on a deal that will be very favorable for the U.S.

Froman also talked about the Russian ban of all U.S. ag products. He says the overall market impact is negligible. He believes Russia is using the ban as a trade barrier as the U.S. has had ongoing issues over beta agonist use.

Froman says the trade agenda also includes moving China to approve the MIR 162 event and synchronize their biotech approvals.