USMCA in wake of Tariff Agreement Pt 1

USMCA in wake of Tariff Agreement Pt 1

Bob Larson
Bob Larson
With today's Fruit Grower Report, I'm Bob Larson. It's been a good news/bad news couple of weeks for the international trade picture as tariffs between the U.S., Canada and Mexico were eased, but talks with China have stalled.

U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse says the tariff agreement could mean good things ratification of the USMCA ...

NEWHOUSE ... "Well, you're absolutely right. When the steel and aluminum tariffs were removed, I think that that, along with their removal, went away most of the issues that needed to be solved in order for us to be able to ratify the agreement. Now, it's up to Speaker Pelosi to signal her support so that the House can vote on the agreement."

But, Newhouse says other recent news may have pushed USMCA into the shadows somewhat ...

NEWHOUSE ... "There seems to be a bit of a distraction from issues like trade and immigration and other things, infrastructure. There was a meeting at the White House that didn't end well for our ability to work together and so I'm not certain that the trade agreement is high on the agenda for consideration at least in the next immediate future."

So, how soon could it be voted on?

NEWHOUSE ... "The earliest it could possibly be sent to us to be considered would be the week following. Once the White House sends it to us then there's a certain period of time that we have to consider it. I think it's like 60-days."

Newhouse says the USMCA is the matter he's asked about most when talking with Washington farmers and ranchers.

Tune in tomorrow for more on international trade.

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