11/08/07 Cantwell on free trade with Columbia

Washington Ag November 8, 2007 Washington Senator Maria Cantwell recently participated in an Administration led Congressional delegation that visited Columbia, one of several South American countries for which free trade agreements are pending in Congress. Cantwell says Columbia has made good progress against the illegal drug trade and making great strides in developing a market economy. The Senator sees opportunities for Washington agricultural products. Cantwell: "I think I told a lot of people they might like some Washington French fries because obviously we product a lot of potatoes." Cantwell says wheat too would benefit from a 30 percent tariff currently on U.S. wheat imports, being basically removed. Cantwell: "I think they buy a lot of wheat from a variety of sources we think we can be very competitive with. So why let Canadian wheat have a free ride when U.S. markets could provide great product there." Cantwell acknowledges there are farmers in both countries who oppose free trade agreements. Cantwell: "But we will benefit I think as we have seen in the northwest from opening up international markets for our agricultural products. And I think our growers are proud that they have been able to compete in such a competitive environment." I'm Bob Hoff.