Two Republicans in the U.S. House are urging the Donald Trump administration to craft a trade agreement with Japan. Nebraska Representative Adrian Smith and Florida Representative Ted Yoho introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives Thursday that urges Trump to start the process of establishing a trade agreement with Japan. Congressman Smith says the U.S. “cannot afford” to miss the opportunity to reduce trade barriers with Japan, “especially for U.S. agriculture producers.” Smith pointed out a trade agreement could address the 40 percent tariff on U.S. beef imported to Japan compared to the 28 percent tariff Australia has negotiated. The difference in tariffs allows Australia a competitive advantage over U.S. beef in Japan. Congressman Yoho says a bilateral trade agreement with Japan would “continue to strengthen the U.S.-Japan relationship,” noting Japan is the fourth largest trading partner for the United States. The resolution was welcomed by the National Pork Producers Council and the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association.
From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting news service.